Numismatic Notes
In our 'Papers' section, you will find a number of longer pieces dealing with complex or relatively lengthy subjects. But there are always a number of numismatic nuggets which are worth an airing, but would not, at this stage, merit a Paper of their own. So, this section is devoted to numismatic bits and pieces!
The first of our Notes concerns the halfpenny tokens issued in 1794 by Charles Heath, Bay (or baize) Maker of Colchester. Dalton and Hamer list two distinct dies for this issue, but were they right?
Our second Note features a more modern Classic - the United States Buffalo nickel, issued between 1913 and 1938. Could it be that this is the only coin ever issued to depict a rump steak while still on the hoof?
A Famous Victory links a Portsmouth halfpenny token of 1797 with some of the most stirring action in Royal Navy history - before it was neutered by the politically correct brigade.
Enigmatic Canute is an examination of some unusual marks on a Stamford penny of King Cnut, and a request for more information from any collectors who may have examples of Cnut's coins in their trays.
Unlisted Overdate 1674 is a photographic record of a newly found Charles II fourpence where the '74' of the date appears to be struck over '63' Fortunately, the piece is in excellent condition, and very clear views of the overdate can be seen.
Wilkinson's First Token? considers which of the thirty listed varieties of the Iron Master's 1787 halfpenny tokens can reasonably be considered to be the very first. And, indeed, whether this first token might have been the elusive Wilkinson Penny!
From time to time people (in general!) have complained about the size of coins. In the 18th century, the coppers were too big, in the 20th century the silver 3d was too small. But spare a thought for the citizens of Arados in the 4th century BC... Small Change? explains all.
Brockages have occurred probably since the beginning of numismatic time. They are usually coins with one side normal, and the other side showing an incuse and mirror image of the normal side. The brockage of Claudius II shown here is all that and more: it has been overstruck with the correct reverse design over the brockage!
The silver coins of 1787 have long been divided into 'no-hearts' and 'hearts.' Now, a new twist has been added to the story of the 1787 sixpence: there are two types of date, as well!
More complex subjects, and those requiring fuller treatment, can be found in our Papers section.