Ancient, British and World Coins, Historical Medals and Tokens

George III (1760-1820), gilt Proof Penny, 1806, another. Extremely fine, cleaned in the past but leaving some discolouration to beaded borders and around and within some letters, and shield on reverse artificially dulled (£80-120)

Although this coin seems to conform to BMC 1321, described by Peck as early Soho, there are scattered rust marks on the obverse, presumably indicating a “late early striking.” Another peculiarity is the shield on the reverse which has been treated in some way, presumably outside the confines of the Soho Mint, to give it a dull matt appearance which contrasts with the brilliance of the rest of the design – doubtless to many an act of numismatic vandalism, though curiously the effect is quite successful and not unpleasing.