Victoria 1875 shilling: an ordinary coin with extraordinary eye appeal

Being a generalist collector, there may be any number of reasons why I'm drawn to a given coin. Sometimes, I go for it simply because it is a rare type. Many times, the reason I buy it is because the coin tells an interesting story or is particularly rich in historical significance. But sometimes, I buy a coin simply because it is beautiful.

This coin falls into the last category. It isn't rare, and it doesn't really have any special historical significance, but with that spectacular rim toning, and the near mirror-like reflective surfaces, it's such a lovely coin! And like my Napoleon 1808 franc, photos can scarcely do it justice - you'll have to see the video below.

UNITED KINGDOM
Time of Victoria, 1837-1901
AR Shilling (23.5mm, 5.66g, 6h)
Dated 1875. Royal mint, London, UK
Obverse: VICTORIA DEI GRATIA BRITANNIAR:REG:F: D:, “Young Head” portrait of Queen Victoria left
Reverse: ONE SHILLING in two lines within wreath; crown above, date below
References: Numista 7248
Mintage: 4,353,900
A choice specimen, with brilliant proof-like surfaces and lovely peripheral rainbow toning. From the Alexander Christopher Collection.​

And here is a video of the coin in hand:

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I hope you enjoy it! Feel free to post your own coins you bought just for looks, or anything else relevant!

 

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WOW! She's a beauty. Save her for my next thread, "Two Tone Tuesday!".

 

I love the rainbow toning. Great looking coin.

Bruce

 

Look up "Die Numbers"
Your coin has the Die Number 33 just above the date.

 

Thanks! I love some good toning. Sounds like a great thread!

Thanks Bruce!

 

Yes! I was hooked the moment I saw it. Interestingly, this one was also from CNG (like my Napoleon franc) but the toning did show up better in the AH photos.

Please extend my thanks to Bean for the signal honor!

 

Good eye. I saw that too, and in fact I think it was noted in the auction house description. It's very hard to see in hand but shows up a little better in the photo. Kind neat that they did that!

 

Super nice coin - even better with that toning! These seem to be tough to find with original surfaces, more so in AU+ condition. Someday I'd like to get one.