Lot 2788

Description

1960 VIP Crown, Elizabeth II, 1952-. Proof "V.I.P." 5 Shillings (Crown), S-4143. ESC- 4338. L&S-10, Davies 2290. Straight-grained edge, CuNi V.I.P. issue. R4. Est. Mintage: 30-50. The first time currency crowns were struck since 1953, and the first time the effigy by M. Gillick (initials on truncation) was the same as the other denominations. Obverse: Modified Gillick Effigy of Elizabeth II facing right. Given its large size and a reduction in the Queens titles to ELIZABETH II DEI GRATIA REGINA F?D? FIVE SHILLINGS the obverse legend incorporates the more readable Albertus font and a different form of beaded decoration to other issues. Reverse: by C. Thomas (initials under Irish Shield) and E. Fuller (initials under English Shield) is identical to the 1953 crown excluding the 1960 date and comprises four shields in saltire pattern bearing arms of England, Scotland, Ireland and England radiating from a central crown. The shields are separated by the floral emblems of all four constituent kingdoms and principality, with the Welsh leek separating the date. This VIP issue is distinct from the coins struck using polished dies, by the extra polishing treatments applied to both the flan and acid-etched dies and extra care in striking resulting in a deep frosted cameo appearance with mirrored fields set off by high, squared-off rims. An example of the crown struck from polished dies (ESC-4337, L&S 7) is included for comparison. Deep cameo, FDC and very rare.