Offered is an example of the famed 1745 Lima Halfcrown, issued under the reign of King George II, KM#584, SP#3695, ESC#1687. Graded F-15 by NGC (indeed, having handled other F graded examples from this firm), we might actually consider bumping this example to an F-18 or even into the lowest eschelons of the VF range.
It has been stated as early as 1762 that the silver used in these coins was taken by Admiral George Anson from a Spanish fleet in the Pacific - an assertion that Seaby proved to be false in the early 1970s, although the myth persists to this day. In reality, the treasure of Lima-mint ‘pieces of eight’ (from which these coins derive their privy marks) was seized Captains Morecock and Talbot from a French fleet in the Atlantic. A total of 2 676 315 Dollars worth of silver (among other metals and commodities) was taken from 2 ships - the Louis Erasmus, and the Marquis d’Antin in 1745. With the Royal Mint Master William Chetwynd applying in September the same year for permission to use the ‘LIMA’ privy mark below the bust of the King. The silver was struck into coin in 1745-46.
This piece exceptionally nice for the grade / type, retaining a fantastic, original patina which lightens on the devices. Top eye-appeal makes this a choice example at an affordable pricepoint.
Offered is an example of the famed 1745 Lima Halfcrown, issued under the reign of King George II, KM#584, SP#3695, ESC#1687. Graded F-15 by NGC (indeed, having handled other F graded examples from this firm), we might actually consider bumping this example to an F-18 or even into the lowest eschelons of the VF range.
It has been stated as early as 1762 that the silver used in these coins was taken by Admiral George Anson from a Spanish fleet in the Pacific - an assertion that Seaby proved to be false in the early 1970s, although the myth persists to this day. In reality, the treasure of Lima-mint ‘pieces of eight’ (from which these coins derive their privy marks) was seized Captains Morecock and Talbot from a French fleet in the Atlantic. A total of 2 676 315 Dollars worth of silver (among other metals and commodities) was taken from 2 ships - the Louis Erasmus, and the Marquis d’Antin in 1745. With the Royal Mint Master William Chetwynd applying in September the same year for permission to use the ‘LIMA’ privy mark below the bust of the King. The silver was struck into coin in 1745-46.
This piece exceptionally nice for the grade / type, retaining a fantastic, original patina which lightens on the devices. Top eye-appeal makes this a choice example at an affordable pricepoint.
