Yhdistynyt kuningaskunta. George III. 1 Penny 1799

Great Britain – George III – Halfpenny – 1799 – Grained in Groove Edge

Offered is an original 1799 British Halfpenny struck during the reign of King George III (1760–1820). Issued by the Soho Mint during a period of major reform in British copper coinage, this impressive piece represents one of the final copper issues of the 18th century and is a classic coin of the Georgian era.

The obverse features a laureate right-facing bust of King George III with the surrounding Latin legend "GEORGIUS III DEI GRATIA REX" ("George III, by the Grace of God, King"). The reverse depicts the seated figure of Britannia, holding an olive branch and trident with her shield resting beside her, accompanied by the date 1799.

This example features the desirable grained in groove security edge, consisting of a recessed central groove with fine vertical milling. This anti-counterfeiting edge design was introduced as part of Matthew Boulton's advanced minting technology at the Soho Mint and demonstrates the technical innovations that helped modernize British coin production during the Industrial Revolution.

Struck in copper, these halfpennies were intended to provide durable, high-quality small change at a time when counterfeit and lightweight copper coinage had become widespread. Today they remain among the most popular coins of the Georgian period due to their historical importance, distinctive designs, and connection to Britain's industrial and monetary reforms.

The coin displays an attractive dark brown patina with honest circulation wear consistent with age. The portrait of George III, Britannia, legends, and date remain well defined, while the original grained in groove edge is preserved, adding to the coin's originality and collector appeal.

Specifications

Country: Great Britain
Ruler: George III
Denomination: Halfpenny
Year: 1799
Metal: Copper
Mint: Soho Mint, Birmingham
Edge: Grained in groove
Shape: Round

A handsome late 18th-century British copper coin, representing an important milestone in the history of modern minting. An excellent addition to collections of British coinage, Georgian numismatics, Industrial Revolution history, or world copper coins.