Lot 383
Great Britain. Proof Set, 1746. George II, 1727-60. Older Laureate Bust left. Reverse, crowned cruciform shields, angles plain. S-3690, 3696, 3704 and 3711; ESC-126, 608, 1208, 1619. These four coins are an excellent example of the very first Proof set issued by the Royal Mint specifically for collectors. Only about 100 such sets were made, the intended "market" being museums and aristocrats, for it was the vogue at the time for "gentlemen" to collect anything and everything related to "culture." The homeland coinage was therefore a natural item for inclusion in such gentlemens' holdings. This set consists of the four largest coins then in circulation, all struck as Proofs, as follows: the crown (S-3690) with VICESIMO edge inscription, the halfcrown (S-3696) with the same edge, and with engrailed edges the shilling (S-3704) and sixpence (S-3711). In 1746, the only silver coins of these denominations struck without the hallmark LIMA on them were these Proofs. It's not possible to say with certainty if these are the same four coins originally issued together as a set, but they match very well, as each has attractive silvery gray and gold iridescent toning, which is in fact brighter and prettier than is usually found on these coins. Very few sets remain intact: few original sets exist. Mostly what is seen today are individual coins, and the majority of the surviving specimens show a considerable amount of disturbance to the surfaces. This is one of the finest sets extant. Exceptionally choice Proofs, each blessed by the same iridescence, surface sparkle and originality. Lot of 4 coins. NGC graded Crown, Proof 65, Halfcrown NGC Proof-63, Shilling NGC Proof 64 and Sixpence NGC Proof-64.
Estimated Value $15,000 - 20,000.
Ex Dr Jacob Y. Terner Collection.
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| Realized $21,000 |
