-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 44650
Checkout
The Newfoundland 20 Cents 1896 Lg 96 KM#4 in fine (F) condition is a sterling testament to the numismatic heritage of one of the most intriguing regions of North America. Struck in the year 1896, this silver coin is part of a series that tells the story of Newfoundland's rich history and its unique place within the British Empire before becoming a province of Canada in 1949. The coin, minted during the reign of Queen Victoria, represents a period of burgeoning economic development and cultural identity for Newfoundland, serving both as legal tender and a symbol of Newfoundland's autonomy and its ties to the British crown.
The design of the 1896 Newfoundland 20 cents piece reflects the Victorian aesthetic and the era's prevailing motifs. The obverse of the coin proudly bears the likeness of Queen Victoria, denoting Newfoundland's status as a British colony. This portrait of the queen not only signifies the island's allegiance but also serves as a reminder of the vast global empire to which Newfoundland belonged. The reverse features the denomination encircled by a wreath, a classical symbol of victory and honor, which in the context of this coin, may also represent the prosperity and natural bounty of Newfoundland. The "Lg 96" in the coin's designation refers to the large size of the last two digits of the year, a variant that distinguishes it from other issues and adds to its collectibility.
Regarding packaging, coins of this era were generally issued for circulation without special consideration for collectors. They were tools of commerce, meant to facilitate trade and transactions in the daily lives of Newfoundlanders. The survival of these coins, particularly in fine condition, underscores their resilience and the care with which some were preserved, either intentionally by collectors or incidentally through limited use. Today, such coins are often found in numismatic collections, encapsulated and labeled to protect their historical value and condition.
The mintage of the Newfoundland 20 Cents 1896 Lg 96 is a point of interest for both historians and collectors, as it reflects the economic conditions and technological capabilities of the time. While specific mintage figures for this variant may be scarce, it is understood that coins from Newfoundland generally had lower mintages than those from larger countries. This relative scarcity, combined with the specific historical context of Newfoundland's coinage, enhances the coin's appeal and value among numismatists and collectors seeking pieces with unique stories and limited availability.
The condition of the coin, described as fine (F), indicates that while it shows signs of wear from circulation, it retains enough detail to clearly convey its design and historical significance. Coins in this state offer a tangible link to the past, allowing collectors to touch and examine an object that was part of the daily life of Newfoundlanders more than a century ago. This level of preservation is particularly valued for its ability to bridge the gap between historical artifact and collectible item, providing insight into the design and usage of the coin while remaining accessible to a wide range of collectors.
A fascinating aspect of Newfoundland's history, as it relates to its coinage, is its geographical and strategic importance, especially in the context of transatlantic communications and travel. As the easternmost point of North America, Newfoundland played a pivotal role in the early transatlantic cable projects and aviation, marking significant milestones in global communication and transportation. The 1896 20 Cents coin, minted during a period of such technological and economic advancements, symbolizes not just the island's colonial ties but also its contributions to global connectivity and progress. This backdrop adds a layer of historical depth to the coin, connecting it not only to Newfoundland's history but to broader narratives of human achievement and ambition.
In sum, the Newfoundland 20 Cents 1896 Lg 96 KM#4 in fine condition is a precious artifact that encapsulates a moment in time when Newfoundland enjoyed a distinct and proud identity within the British Empire. Beyond its value as currency, this coin serves as a window into the cultural, economic, and historical landscapes of late 19th century Newfoundland, offering collectors and historians alike a tangible piece of a bygone era marked by exploration, innovation, and transition.