Great Britain: Victoria gold Proof "Una and the Lion" 5 Pounds 1839 PR64 Deep Cameo PCGS,...

Description

Practically Gem and Deeply Mirrored Una and the Lion 5 Pounds

Victoria gold Proof "Una and the Lion" 5 Pounds 1839 PR64 Deep Cameo PCGS, KM742, S-3851, W&R-278 (R4), Marsh-F23 (R3). DIRIGE legend, medal alignment. Small lettered edge with 6 scrolls. By William Wyon. A series rarity which requires little introduction to produce an awe among collectors that is unique to its type--the Una and the Lion 5 Pounds of 1839. Possessed of a truly singular gravitas that has been felt since it was first issued as part of Victoria's delayed coronation Proof set, it is said that the popularity of Wyon's "Faerie Queen"-inspired imagery was so great at the time that demand completely outstripped the coin's original mintage of 400 or so pieces, requiring the Royal Mint to produce additional specimens to-order for almost 50 years until 1886. As a coin that stands as a textbook example of definitive Cameo contrasts, it almost goes without saying that viewing this PR64 survivor is comparable to gazing into a mirror, with only the design's trademark motifs causing the eye to occasionally stop and pause. A type whose popularity has only continued to skyrocket in recent years, with the finest survivors reaching well into the seven figures.

Metal: Gold
Diameter: 35.5mm
Weight: 39.9403g
AGW: 1.1775oz
Mintage: 400

More information about Great Britain Coins. See also: Great Britain World Coin Nationality.



Note for clients in the European Union: This lot is considered by the European Union to be “investment gold”. We believe that it meets the criteria established in Article 344(1), point (2) of Council Directive 2006/112/EC and thus should be exempt from import VAT regardless of the selling price. Any questions or concerns about VAT should be addressed to your accountant or local tax authority.

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