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Stanley Gibbons Baldwin’s is thrilled to present the Ancient, British and World Coin Auction at 399 Strand on Wednesday 9 July. Among several highlights of the sale is the spectacular Sydney 1855 Half Sovereign – one of the rarest coins of Queen Victoria to exist and arguably Australia’s rarest circulating coin. The reported mintage of these pieces is 21,000, however it is estimated that only 50 – 60 pieces survive today, with many being preserved in very low grades. High grade examples of this coin are virtually non-existent, and this coin rarely appears on the market – let alone in such a good condition. With its clear detailing visible on the portrait and minimal surface damage, this example is extremely fine – quite simply, exquisite.
Gold coins have played an important role in shaping Australia’s unique history, influencing not only trade and economy, but also city development, population density and culture. When gold was first discovered in New South Wales in the early 1800s, first it was the gold nugget that became the treasure seekers’ prize. Before long, the idea of minting the material into coins gained traction. Australia’s history was forever transformed by several major gold rushes, and the Victorian Gold Rush of the 1850s stands out as a key turning point.
Triggering massive immigration, towns like Ballarat were transformed into bustling cities, and the demand for gold coins increased as settlers sought reliable currency for thriving commercial activities. There was a need for significant infrastructural development, as well as minted coins to support booming settlements. Local mints were called for, as the transportation of gold to overseas mints was both costly and cumbersome. The Sydney Mint was the very first Royal Mint branch mint to be established, and it began to strike gold sovereigns in 1855. Half sovereigns were minted from 1855 to 1866, making this example of the 1855 Sydney Mint Half Sovereign one of the first gold coins officially issued in Australia.
The gold rushes of the 1800s and the establishment of mints not only boosted Australia’s economic growth on the national and international stage but also marked a milestone in the shift towards the country’s financial independence and heritage.
A great rarity of Australian and overall Victorian numismatic series, the 1855 Sydney Half Sovereign is one of the most challenging dates in the Australian series and one of the rarest Victorian Half Sovereigns to be acquired overall. It is considered an essential piece in any Australian sovereign collection, and yet even so, it is missing from many advanced collections. Many adept collectors will wait for years for the opportunity to acquire this piece. This is only the third example of this rare coin that Baldwin’s has handled in its history. When it heads to auction at SGBaldwins.com, this coin is estimated to sell at auction for £10,000 – 12,000.
For more information, please visit www.sgbaldwins.com
