Lot 585

Victoria (1837-1901), Proof Halfcrown, 1839. "En Medaille Variety." NGC PF65 Cameo

Ancient, Medieval & Milled British, World & Islamic Coins | 113

Auction: 18 October 2023 at 10:00 BST

£14,400

Description

Victoria (1837-1901), Pattern Proof Halfcrown, 1839, one ornate, one plain fillet, edge plain, (Bull 2708 var.; ESC 670 var. ; Adams 654; S.3885 var.). Magnificent, as struck. Sublime rainbow toning, razor sharp detail with cameo fields. Possibly the most attractive example to ever appear for sale. Encapsulated by NGC as PF65 Cameo. Photo by NGC.

The En Medaille variety is not listed in ESC, Bull or Spink It is unknown how much rarer the En Medaille examples are over the inverted reverse examples. Only the Colin Adam’s example in the Spink auction was listed as such in 2005.

The Coincraft Standard Catalogue 1999 makes reference to a plain edge proof being issued en medaille. Possibly these were separate from the inverted reverses issued in the sets.

Footnote

The Carlton Collection of Halfcrowns - This superb collection of halfcrowns has been accumulated over the last twenty-five years. A type collection with only quality in mind. The majority of the coins presented below are top tier examples in terms of condition, but even more importantly by the exquisite hues and sumptuous toning of many of the pieces.

Victoria (1837-1901), Proof Halfcrown, 1839. "En Medaille Variety." NGC PF65 Cameo