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The Great Britain 1 penny 1873 KM#749.2 XF is a significant piece in British numismatic history, representing a time of economic prosperity and industrial expansion during the Victorian era. This penny coin, struck during the reign of Queen Victoria, is notable for its detailed design, historical context, and the craftsmanship of the Royal Mint.
The penny has been an essential part of British coinage for centuries, used widely in everyday transactions. The 1873 penny is part of the bronze coinage introduced in 1860, which replaced the larger copper pennies. This change reflected the need for more manageable and durable coins in an era of rapid industrialization and urbanization.
The obverse of the 1873 penny features the portrait of Queen Victoria, designed by Leonard Charles Wyon. This "Bun Head" portrait depicts the young queen facing left, wearing a coronet, with her hair styled in a bun. The inscription "VICTORIA D G BRITT REG F D" surrounds the portrait, which translates to "Victoria, by the Grace of God, Queen of the Britains, Defender of the Faith." This portrait was first introduced in 1860 and remained in use until 1894.
The reverse design of the Great Britain 1 penny 1873 KM#749.2 was also crafted by Leonard Charles Wyon. It features the iconic image of Britannia, the personification of Britain, seated and facing right. Britannia is depicted holding a trident in her left hand and a shield bearing the Union Jack in her right, symbolizing Britain's naval power and maritime heritage. The inscription "ONE PENNY" is above, and the date "1873" is below, flanked by two sea waves, further emphasizing the maritime theme.
The coin is struck in bronze, a material chosen for its durability and resistance to wear. The bronze composition consists of 95% copper, 4% tin, and 1% zinc, providing the coins with a distinctive color and robustness suitable for everyday use. The 1873 penny measures 30.8 millimeters in diameter and weighs approximately 9.4 grams.
The 1873 penny was minted in large quantities to meet the demands of a growing population and economy. However, the exact mintage figures are not readily available. Despite the high production numbers, the condition of surviving coins varies, with well-preserved examples being particularly sought after by collectors.
The condition of this specific coin is graded as Extremely Fine (XF), indicating that it has seen very little circulation and retains most of its original detail. Coins in XF condition show only slight wear on the highest points of the design, with sharp details and a pleasing overall appearance. This makes the 1873 penny highly desirable for numismatists who value both historical context and aesthetic quality.
During Queen Victoria's reign, the British Empire expanded significantly, and the economy flourished. The penny coinage of this period reflects the technological advancements and artistic achievements of the time. The intricate designs by Leonard Charles Wyon showcase the skill and craftsmanship of the Royal Mint, making these coins valuable pieces of history.
Collectors treasure the Great Britain 1 penny 1873 KM#749.2 not only for its monetary value but also for its historical significance. Each coin serves as a tangible link to the Victorian era, offering insights into the social and economic conditions of the time. The penny was a common coin in everyday transactions, making it a direct connection to the lives of ordinary people during the 19th century.
British coinage has a long tradition of celebrating the nation's history and heritage through detailed and meaningful designs. The 1873 penny is a prime example of this tradition, encapsulating the essence of Victorian Britain and the values of the era.
In conclusion, the Great Britain 1 penny 1873 KM#749.2 XF 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 Queen Victoria's reign and the artistry of the Royal Mint.