Lot 2503

Description

1826 Proof Set Case - New Bare Head Coinage Issue, George IV, 1820-30. 1826, S-PS1 New Issue Five Sovereigns to Farthing (11 coins). Contemporary extremely rare red leather double-sided oval display case fitted with brass swing hooks. This case includes an original protective ground glass window and a removable red velvet roundel tray with a white silk lining. The roundel pattern is oval, with the minor coins positioned left progressing to the largest on the right side of the tray. The two lids enable both sides of the coins to be viewed. The case reveals minor repairs, and the wooden frame is slightly distorted, as is typical for this type of wooden framed case. Mintage estimated at 414 sets struck. The number of individual low denomination silver and copper proof coins privately struck is more significant but remains unknown.^The coins present with an inverted reverse (6h dies in coin orientation) unless otherwise described. ^OBVERSE DESCRIPTIONS: Design by William Wyon from a sculptured bust by Sir Francis Chantrey. The gold and silver coins have a common obverse comprising: - Left facing (Sinester) undraped bust of King George the Fourth with an elaborately curled wig. The above shoulder truncation is bare, and underneath is the date 1826 flanked by decorative (comprising an oval surrounded by six beads to form a floret) stops. Effigy surrounded by the legend GEORGIUS IV DEI GRATIA "George the fourth by the grace of God" a denticular border and a narrow-raised rim surround the coin. All parts of the design in relief exhibit delicate frosting over mirrored fields.^The copper (bronzed) coins have a common obverse by W. Wyon as above, comprising: - Left facing (Sinester) bare bust of King George the Fourth with elaborately curled wig fitted with a laurel wreath tied with a looped ribbon, one end of which is loose and dangles below the ear. The above shoulder truncation is bare, and underneath is the date 1826 flanked by decorative stops as per the precious metal coins above. The effigy is surrounded by the legend GEORGIUS IV DEI GRATIA "George the fourth by the grace of God" a long denticular border, and a wide flat raised rim to surround the coin. Possible due to the bronzing, the relief design exhibits delicate frosting; however, the fields are mirror finished. There are slight variations in the detail of the hair, wreath (number of berries) and tie ribbon between the three denominations. ^Fine and very rare.

Ex Status Oct 2013 (Sale 301, lot 7401).