Romania. Carol I. 5 Bani 1867





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Description from the seller
Lot Title: Romania 1867 5 Bani – Watt & Co. Mint – NGC MS63 (Choice Uncirculated)
Historical Significance
This coin represents a cornerstone of modern Romanian history. Issued under the Monetary Law of 1867, it is part of the very first national coinage series of the United Principalities under Prince Carol I. It marks the transition to a modern decimal system and the symbolic assertion of Romanian financial identity.
The "Watt & Co." Distinction
While the 1867 5 Bani was struck by two British mints (Heaton and Watt), the Watt & Co. (Birmingham) variety is highly prized by collectors for its sharp strike and historical provenance. The mint name "WATT & Co." is clearly visible on the reverse, distinguishing it from its Heaton counterpart.
Technical Specifications
Year: 1867
Mint: Watt & Co., Birmingham, UK
Composition: Bronze (95% Copper, 4% Tin, 1% Zinc)
Weight: 5.00 g
Diameter: 25 mm
Obverse: State Coat of Arms of the United Principalities, flanked by lions, with the Royal Motto "Nihil Sine Deo" (Nothing Without God).
Reverse: The denomination "5 BANI" and the year "1867" framed by a laurel and oak wreath.
Condition & NGC Grading: MS63 (Mint State)
The Grade: Certified by NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company) as MS63, this specimen is in Choice Uncirculated condition.
Luster & Detail: The coin retains its original mint luster and displays exceptional sharpness. The intricate details of the heraldic lions, the shield, and the fine veins in the oak leaves are remarkably preserved—details that are typically lost on circulated examples.
Rarity in High Grade: While millions were minted for circulation, finding an 1867 5 Bani in a Mint State (MS) grade is extremely difficult. Most survived only in worn (F/VF) condition due to heavy daily use in the late 19th century.
Investment Appeal
Top-Tier Certification: The NGC slab ensures both authenticity and a globally recognized grade, providing maximum liquidity for international buyers.
Portfolio Essential: A fundamental "must-have" for any serious collector of Romanian or Balkan numismatics.
Proven Growth: High-grade Romanian copper coins from the Carol I era have shown consistent appreciation in value at major European auctions.
Lot Title: Romania 1867 5 Bani – Watt & Co. Mint – NGC MS63 (Choice Uncirculated)
Historical Significance
This coin represents a cornerstone of modern Romanian history. Issued under the Monetary Law of 1867, it is part of the very first national coinage series of the United Principalities under Prince Carol I. It marks the transition to a modern decimal system and the symbolic assertion of Romanian financial identity.
The "Watt & Co." Distinction
While the 1867 5 Bani was struck by two British mints (Heaton and Watt), the Watt & Co. (Birmingham) variety is highly prized by collectors for its sharp strike and historical provenance. The mint name "WATT & Co." is clearly visible on the reverse, distinguishing it from its Heaton counterpart.
Technical Specifications
Year: 1867
Mint: Watt & Co., Birmingham, UK
Composition: Bronze (95% Copper, 4% Tin, 1% Zinc)
Weight: 5.00 g
Diameter: 25 mm
Obverse: State Coat of Arms of the United Principalities, flanked by lions, with the Royal Motto "Nihil Sine Deo" (Nothing Without God).
Reverse: The denomination "5 BANI" and the year "1867" framed by a laurel and oak wreath.
Condition & NGC Grading: MS63 (Mint State)
The Grade: Certified by NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company) as MS63, this specimen is in Choice Uncirculated condition.
Luster & Detail: The coin retains its original mint luster and displays exceptional sharpness. The intricate details of the heraldic lions, the shield, and the fine veins in the oak leaves are remarkably preserved—details that are typically lost on circulated examples.
Rarity in High Grade: While millions were minted for circulation, finding an 1867 5 Bani in a Mint State (MS) grade is extremely difficult. Most survived only in worn (F/VF) condition due to heavy daily use in the late 19th century.
Investment Appeal
Top-Tier Certification: The NGC slab ensures both authenticity and a globally recognized grade, providing maximum liquidity for international buyers.
Portfolio Essential: A fundamental "must-have" for any serious collector of Romanian or Balkan numismatics.
Proven Growth: High-grade Romanian copper coins from the Carol I era have shown consistent appreciation in value at major European auctions.

