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20 000 USDPrice realized:
120 000 USD Find similar lots
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Great Britain
Edward VIII nickel-brass Pattern 3 Pence 1937 MS64 NGC, KM-Pn126, S-4064B, Peck-2365, Giordano-Unl. Plain edge. By T. H. Paget and Frances Madge Kitchener. Yet another celebrated rarity of British origin within these pages, one whose importance is instantly ascertained through the recognition of Edward VIII's left-facing bust. Only a handful of 20th century British issues truly excite collectors; the 1933 George V Penny and the 1953 Elizabeth Sovereign come to mind when considering absolute rarity and fervor. Edward VIII was notable for numerous controversial stances and actions highlighted in a myriad of literary sources throughout his life, with his proposed coinage no less contentious. Breaking tradition, the very design of Edward's coinage at once delineated from centuries of British numismatic convention. Whereas the Kings of England had adopted a style of alternating the direction of their portraits since the transition of power from Oliver Cromwell to Charles II, Edward, after long discussions with his Chancellor of the Exchequer Neville Chamberlain, elected to have his bust positioned to the left as had his father George V. Though over 200 dies for coins, medals, and seals were prepared for the new king's coinage in 1936, clearly indicating that the mint had all intentions of producing a full series of issues for circulation, these were ultimately destroyed after Edward's abdication to marry Wallis Simpson following just 10-1/2 months of rule. The scarcity of these 3 Pence pieces is immediately apparent due to the paucity of auction records in recent decades, with the same Penn Collection example in MS61 trading hands multiple times and no other specimens reaching market in that time until now. Here on offer is the finest of this Pattern type, distinguished by a more naturalistic thrift plant and framed in a circular border. Brassy golden expanses lay host to Edward's contemplative bust and remain fully awash in cascading luster. A stunner to say the least and perhaps a unique opportunity for an advanced type collector.
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HID02906262019
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Estimate: 40000-60000 USD