Lot 291
Great Britain. Maundy 2 Pence Struck in Gold, 1831. William IV. Obverse by William Wyon. Reverse by J.B. Merlen. Plain edge. WR-275. R6: extremely rare, just 3-5 known, of which more than one are impounded in museums (including the Hunterian). Gold Maundies are always found in oddments, in singles rather than sets, although it was a set of four coins (4d, 3d, 2d and penny) that were struck in nearly pure gold for presentation to India's maharajahs and perhaps others, all of whom were wealthy beyond imagining-thus it was felt, appropriately, that diminutive coins not usually struck in the royal metal would be charming and exotic mementos, as they would be unusual in the extreme and memorable as unique expressions of esteem from one monarch to another. This is a delightful little coin with a pleasing cameo, showing off the king's portrait as it can be seen on no other coin! It is so rare that the cataloguer has never encountered nor even heard of another specimen. Like the 1838 Maundy penny in gold, this is an opportunity to own something that ordinary men were not meant to see-an opportunity that may not repeat itself for a long, long time. This is, simply said, one of the rarest coins of the 19th century. PCGS graded Proof 64 Deep Cameo.
Estimated Value $4,000 - 5,000.
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| Realized $5,290 |
