Lot 22
1773 Virginia Halfpenny, period after "GEORGIVS". PCGS graded MS-64 Red and Brown. This specimen boasts nearly full red color on both sides, it is well struck and centered, and shows very few signs of handling. Free of the usually seen spots, and an exceptional example of this important colonial issue.
Virginia, unique among the original thirteen colonies, received royal authorization to coin its own money (1609). No one bothered though, and tobacco remained the standard medium of exchange for the first 150 years. Accordingly, the Virginia Assembly (1773) passed an act authorizing coinage pursuant to the Royal Charter, and the royal authorities approved. The Tower Mint in London shipped over 5 tons of halfpence in 1773. The timid Virginia Treasurer demanded a Royal Proclamation before he would release the coins into circulation, fearing his actions could be construed as treasonous without such authorization. Nearly a year later, the Royal Proclamation arrived, meanwhile the Revolution was on the verge of erupting. All coins were hoarded at the time, as people prepared for war.
Even with their English ties, these coins did circulate, and have been recovered at American historical sites. Most of the Uncirculated examples were found in a keg which was found in Richmond just prior to the Civil War.
Estimated Value $500 - 800.
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| Realized $1,150 |
