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- Product ID: 49785
The Canada 1 cent 1882H Obv. 1 KM#7 coin is a remarkable artifact from the late 19th century, offering insight into the numismatic practices and historical backdrop of the era. Minted in 1882, this piece reflects the intricate dynamics of Canadian coinage just after the confederation period, during the reign of Queen Victoria. The 'H' mint mark signifies that it was produced at the Heaton Mint in Birmingham, England, which was a common practice at the time due to Canada's burgeoning but still developing minting capabilities.
This coin features Obverse 1, which showcases a young portrait of Queen Victoria, designed by Leonard Charles Wyon. The portrait is framed by the inscription "VICTORIA DEI GRATIA REGINA," a Latin title meaning "Victoria, by the Grace of God, Queen." The reverse of the coin carries a simple yet symbolic design, featuring the denomination surrounded by a wreath of maple leaves, which is an emblem of Canada's rich natural resources and its emerging national identity. The design elements are characteristic of the Victorian era, emphasizing elegance and detailed craftsmanship.
Struck from a durable bronze composition, the 1882H one-cent coin was designed to withstand the wear and tear of everyday transactions. The bronze alloy, typically composed of 95.5% copper with tin and zinc making up the remainder, ensured that the coin was both practical for widespread circulation and aesthetically pleasing. This material choice has allowed many of these coins to survive over a century, though often with significant signs of use, given their role in daily commerce.
In terms of condition, this specific coin is graded as Very Good (VG), indicating that while it shows clear signs of wear and aging, all major design elements remain visible, but with flattened areas especially in the higher relief sections of the coin. Coins in VG condition are highly valued in the collector community, not for their mint condition, but for the historical narrative they carry and the durability of their design through extensive use. Collectors often appreciate such pieces for their "lived-in" quality, which makes them tangible witnesses to the economic and social histories of their time.
Given the era in which it was produced, the 1882H one-cent coin would not have originally come with special packaging. However, modern collectors take significant measures to preserve such historical coins, typically using acid-free holders or encapsulation techniques to protect the coin from further deterioration. These preservation methods are crucial for maintaining the coin’s historical value and ensuring that it continues to be a part of Canada’s rich numismatic history.
The mintage of the 1882H one-cent coin reflects a period of relatively high production, aimed at facilitating the economic needs of a growing nation. Despite the large number of coins produced, finding them in higher grades of preservation is increasingly challenging, particularly for those with the Obv. 1 design, making this VG example a valuable find for numismatists. The scarcity of higher-grade specimens from this minting year adds to the desirability and collectibility of the coin, particularly among those interested in Victorian Canadian coins or examples of international minting collaborations.
In summary, the Canada 1 cent 1882H Obv. 1 KM#7 VG coin is not just a medium of exchange but a piece of numismatic art that offers a glimpse into the monetary and cultural conditions of 19th-century Canada. It holds a special place in the collections of those who value historical integrity and the story of a nation's development through its currency.