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The Great Britain 1/2 crown 1819 KM#672 VG silver coin is a noteworthy piece of British numismatic history, encapsulating the economic and cultural context of the early 19th century. This coin, minted during the reign of King George III, is valued for its intricate design, historical significance, and the craftsmanship of the Royal Mint.
The 1/2 crown, worth two shillings and sixpence, was an essential denomination in British coinage, widely used in everyday transactions. The 1819 1/2 crown is part of the silver coinage that played a crucial role in commerce and trade during a period of significant industrial growth and imperial expansion for Great Britain.
The obverse of the 1819 1/2 crown features the portrait of King George III, designed by Benedetto Pistrucci. This "Bull Head" portrait depicts the king facing right, wearing a laureate wreath, a classical symbol of victory and honor. The inscription "GEORGIUS III D G BRITANNIAR REX F D" surrounds the portrait, which translates to "George III, by the Grace of God, King of the Britains, Defender of the Faith." This portrait was used on various denominations of coinage from 1816 until 1820, capturing the mature features of the long-reigning monarch.
The reverse design of the Great Britain 1/2 crown 1819 KM#672 silver coin is also the work of Benedetto Pistrucci. It features an intricate shield design with the crowned arms of the United Kingdom. The shield is quartered, displaying the three lions passant guardant of England, the lion rampant of Scotland, and the harp of Ireland. The arms are surrounded by a garter bearing the motto "HONI SOIT QUI MAL Y PENSE," which means "Shame to him who thinks evil of it." This design is encircled by the legend "ANNO 1819" and the denomination "1/2 CROWN," clearly marking the coin's value and year of issue.
The coin is struck in .925 sterling silver, a standard composition for British silver coinage at the time. The sterling silver alloy, consisting of 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper, provided durability and a distinctive luster. The 1819 1/2 crown measures 32 millimeters in diameter and weighs approximately 14.14 grams, making it a substantial and visually impressive coin.
The mintage of the 1819 1/2 crown was part of the broader recoinage effort initiated in 1816, aimed at standardizing and improving the quality of British silver coinage. Although exact mintage figures for the 1819 1/2 crown are not readily available, these coins were produced in significant quantities to meet the demands of the growing economy.
The condition of this specific coin is graded as Very Good (VG), indicating that it has seen considerable circulation and exhibits significant wear. Coins in VG condition retain their major details, although the high points of the design are heavily worn and finer details may be less distinct. For collectors, a VG grade represents a balance between affordability and historical authenticity, offering a well-worn yet still identifiable piece of history.
During the reign of King George III, Great Britain experienced substantial political and economic changes, including the Industrial Revolution and the expansion of the British Empire. The 1/2 crown coinage of this period reflects the technological advancements and artistic achievements of the era. The detailed designs by Benedetto Pistrucci showcase the skill and craftsmanship of the Royal Mint, making these coins valuable pieces of history.
Collectors value the Great Britain 1/2 crown 1819 KM#672 not only for its numismatic worth but also for its historical significance. Each coin serves as a tangible link to the early 19th century, offering insights into the social and economic conditions of the time. The 1/2 crown was a common coin in everyday transactions, making it a direct connection to the lives of ordinary people during the reign of George III.
British coinage has a long tradition of celebrating the nation's history and heritage through detailed and meaningful designs. The 1819 1/2 crown is a prime example of this tradition, encapsulating the essence of early 19th century Britain and the values of the era.
In conclusion, the Great Britain 1/2 crown 1819 KM#672 VG silver coin is a remarkable numismatic artifact. Its design, historical context, and condition make it a prized addition to any collection. This coin not only represents a period of significant change and growth in British history but also showcases the enduring legacy of King George III's reign and the artistry of the Royal Mint.