Lot 2592

Description

1848 Pattern Florin, This florin marks the first attempt at decimalisation of the U.K. coinage with the issue of a one-tenth of a pound denomination. The Mint commissioned several different patterns, all engraved by William Wyon, combining various obverse and reverse designs. Presented here is the pattern adopted for the one-year type "Godless" florin issued in 1849. The profoundly religious Victorian public was outraged that DEI GRATIA or D:G (by the grace of God) was absent. This coin was replaced in 1851 with the Gothic florin, which is much closer in design to the Gothic crown. Obverse - The obverse effigy is a more truncated version of that on the Gothic five-shilling piece with minor variations in the design of the arches and orb on the crown. The legend VICTORIA REGINA 1848 in Roman lettering is very plain and in complete contrast to the Gothic versions. Reverse - The cruciform shield's design is based on the Gothic crown but more simplistic in its decoration with no delicate tracery. In the angles of the cross are the floral emblems, each beneath an arched canopy. The Garter Star is replaced with a double English rose at the centre. Legend ONE FLORIN ONE TENTH OF A POUND in Roman lettering. Victoria, 1837-1901. 1848, S-3890, ESC-2917, Davies-680 (R2) 11.30g. Reverse is struck en Medaille. Plain edge. Borders are beaded on both sides. Obverse - Crowned gothic bust, Godless type W W in relief between bust and date.; Reverse - crowned cruciform shields with central inner rose, outer legend inscribed ONE FLORIN ONE TENTH OF A POUND. Gem cameo proof beautiful iridescent reverse, FDC and very rare, one of the finest known.