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The Jersey 1/12 shilling coin from 1894, cataloged as KM#8, represents a fascinating piece of numismatic history from the island of Jersey, a British Crown Dependency situated in the English Channel. This coin, minted during the late 19th century, offers a window into the financial and cultural milieu of the time, reflecting Jersey's role within the broader context of British coinage. The year 1894 was a period marked by significant social and economic developments in Jersey and the wider British Empire, making this coin a notable artifact of that era.
During the late 19th century, Jersey was experiencing a period of relative stability and prosperity. The island had been a part of the British Crown Dependencies for centuries, maintaining its unique identity while being influenced by British policies and economic practices. The issuance of the 1/12 shilling in 1894 occurred at a time when Jersey was increasingly integrating its coinage with broader British standards, yet still retaining distinctive local features. This coin was part of a series that highlighted Jersey's commitment to maintaining its own currency while participating in the wider British economic system.
The design of the 1894 1/12 shilling is both intricate and symbolic, reflecting the island's heritage and its connection to British royal imagery. On the obverse of the coin, one can find the portrait of Queen Victoria, who was the reigning monarch at the time. This portrait is rendered with a high degree of detail, capturing the Queen in her later years with a dignified expression. Surrounding the portrait are the inscriptions "VICTORIA" and "QUEEN," indicating the monarch's identity and her role as the sovereign of the British Empire. The artistry of this design reflects the skilled craftsmanship of the period, showcasing the engraving techniques used by the mint to produce such detailed and respected coinage.
On the reverse of the coin, the design features the coat of arms of Jersey. This emblem includes a representation of the three lions passant guardant, a heraldic symbol that has long been associated with the island. The design is surrounded by the inscription "JERSEY" and "1/12 SHILLING," denoting the coin's value and its origin. The inclusion of the coat of arms underscores the island's unique identity and its historical connection to the English monarchy. The detailed rendering of the coat of arms on this small denomination coin is a testament to the precision and quality of the minting process during this period.
The mint responsible for producing the 1894 1/12 shilling was the Royal Mint, which was known for its high standards in coin production. The coin is composed of a silver alloy, reflecting the common practice of the time to use precious metals for smaller denominations. The VF (Very Fine) grade of this coin indicates that it has been well-preserved, with only minor signs of wear and some remaining detail. Coins in this grade are highly valued by collectors for their balance of historical significance and aesthetic quality.
The mintage of the 1894 Jersey 1/12 shilling was relatively limited, contributing to its status as a collectible item. While exact mintage figures for this specific year are not always readily available, it is known that Jersey issued a limited number of these coins, making them more rare and sought-after among collectors. The limited mintage and the coin's historical context enhance its appeal to numismatists who are interested in both Jersey's local coinage and the broader history of British currency.
Jersey, as a British Crown Dependency, has a rich numismatic tradition that reflects its unique status and historical development. The 1/12 shilling coin from 1894 is a prime example of how Jersey maintained its distinct identity while participating in the British economic system. The coin's design, featuring Queen Victoria and the Jersey coat of arms, highlights the island's connection to the British monarchy and its role in the wider British Empire.
In summary, the Jersey 1/12 shilling from 1894, cataloged as KM#8, is a significant piece of numismatic history. Its design, reflecting the portrait of Queen Victoria and the Jersey coat of arms, offers insight into the island's heritage and its integration with British coinage. The coin's VF grade and limited mintage contribute to its desirability among collectors, making it a valuable addition to any collection of British Crown Dependency coins. This coin not only represents Jersey's historical period but also serves as a testament to the craftsmanship and artistry of late 19th-century minting.