Great Britain: Victoria Proof Farthing 1853,...

Description

Victoria Proof Farthing 1853, S3950, P1576 (very rare), PF66 PCGS, Young Head, bronzed, a truly captivating farthing, for the color is an eye-filling light reddish chocolate brown (obviously a variation produced by a slightly different bronzing powder than was used in 1839), and superb in every possible way -- wonderful proof impression of the dies, nearly flawless surfaces, and distinct mirror quality to the fields. This was not a Proof of Record but, rather, one of a small number of pieces made for the mysterious proof set of 1853. Victoria was 34 years old when it was struck. She had been married for 13 years in 1853. The Crystal Palace exhibition was staged in 1851. Britain took part in the Crimean War starting in 1853, but what relevance did that have to the coinage? Nothing of great significance seems to have occurred in 1853, yet the Royal Mint struck a special proof set, originally housed in a heart-shaped plush case. Prince Albert was beginning to ail, which may be a reason for its issuance, but that is merely a guess. We may not know why it was minted but we do know that a rarity in proof state was created in this year.
From the Exeter College Collection

Metal: Bronze Plated Copper

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

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