The New York Sale
Auction LIII 14 Jan 2021
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George V (1910-36), 0.500 Silver Matte Proof Sixpence, 1927. Struck from sand-blasted dies, bare head left, BM raised on truncation for engraver Bertram Mackennal, Latin legend and toothed border surrounding, GEORGIVS V DEI GRA: BRITT: OMN: REX F.D. IND: IMP:, rev. struck en medaille, oak wreath with six acorns, tiny K G at centre for engraver Kruger Gray, date at bottom, denomination around top (Bull 3899 R6; ESC 1816A; Davies 1891; S.4040). Toned practically as struck, has been graded and slabbed by NGC as PF64 Matte; of the highest rarity with only two other examples known to us in private hands. Estimated Value $5,000
NGC Certification 3926337-002. The legend on obverse translates as "George the Fifth by the grace of God, King of all the Britains, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India." The matte Proof finish to what are usually brilliant Proof coins was used especially at the Royal Mint for photographic purposes, from around the mid-1920's until as late as the mid 1970's. As flash photography was used to illustrate promotional material, the brilliant Proofs caused too much reflection in the resulting imaging at this period of time, to be acceptable and it was much easier to literally strike one or two examples with a satin matte finish, to not reflect the flash bulb in those days before digital imaging was possible. Bertram Mackennal (1863-1931) was the Australian engraver (later knighted) responsible for the obverse design. George Kruger Gray (1880-1943) was responsible for designing and engraving all the reverse designs.
NGC Certification 3926337-002. The legend on obverse translates as "George the Fifth by the grace of God, King of all the Britains, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India." The matte Proof finish to what are usually brilliant Proof coins was used especially at the Royal Mint for photographic purposes, from around the mid-1920's until as late as the mid 1970's. As flash photography was used to illustrate promotional material, the brilliant Proofs caused too much reflection in the resulting imaging at this period of time, to be acceptable and it was much easier to literally strike one or two examples with a satin matte finish, to not reflect the flash bulb in those days before digital imaging was possible. Bertram Mackennal (1863-1931) was the Australian engraver (later knighted) responsible for the obverse design. George Kruger Gray (1880-1943) was responsible for designing and engraving all the reverse designs.