Lot 519
Charles II (1660-85), Silver Halfcrown of Thirty Pence, third hammered issue (1661-62). Crowned bust left, mark of value XXX behind in field, legend with inner and outer toothed border surrounding, initial mark crown both sides, CAROLVS. II. D: G. MAG: BR FR: ET. HIB: REX, rev. long cross fourchée over quartered shield of arms, legend with inner and outer toothed border surrounding.CHRISTO. AVSPICE. REGNO. Weight 14.67g (Bull 301; ESC 456; N.2761; KM.410; S.3321). Attractively toned, well centred and amazingly well struck for this hammered issue, amongst the best examples available, good extremely fine for issue and extremely rare. Value $10,000 - UP
Interestingly the Neil and Gina Smith collection contains a superb example of the last issue of the hammered silver Halfcrown, the largest portrait piece from his hand-struck coinage; rather than going for the later larger machine-made portrait facing the other direction on the milled Crown. The earlier hammered coinage being the preferred portrait as the work of Thomas Simon rather than the Roettier Brothers, the joint engravers of the milled pieces.
The abbreviated Latin legends translate as on the obverse "Charles by the Grace of God, King of Great Britain, France and Ireland"; and on the reverse "I reign under the auspice of Christ."
Ex George Hamilton-Smith, Glendining, 23-25th May 1927, lot 419, sold for £6. Ex Harrington Manville Collection, 12th July 2001, lot 66, illustrated on front cover. Purchased from Spink and Son Ltd, 12th July 2001.
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| Realized $48,000 |
