1/4 Guilder - George III

Uitgever Demerara and Essequibo
Jaar 1809
Type Standard circulation coin
Waarde 1/4 Guilder
Valuta Guilder ( -1839)
Samenstelling Silver (.816)
Gewicht 1.94 g
Diameter 16 mm
Dikte 1 mm
Vorm Round
Techniek Milled
Oriëntatie Medal alignment ↑↑
Graveur(s)
In omloop tot
Referentie(s) KM#4, Pr#20
Beschrijving voorzijde Laureate bust facing right
Schrift voorzijde Latin
Opschrift voorzijde GEORGIVS III DEI GRATIA
(Translation: George III by the grace of god)
Beschrijving keerzijde Denomination within wreath under St. Edwards crown
Schrift keerzijde Latin
Opschrift keerzijde COLONIES OF ESSEQUEBO & DEMARARY TOKEN -/4 1809
Rand Reeded
Muntplaats
Oplage 1809 - - 124 000
Numisquare-ID 2846423470
Aanvullende informatie

Historical Context: This 1809 1/4 Guilder was issued for Demerara and Essequibo during King George III's protracted reign. By this period, these former Dutch colonies were firmly under British control, captured in 1803 amidst the Napoleonic Wars. The coin reflects Britain's expanding colonial empire and the necessity for standardized currency to facilitate trade and administration within its new territories, integrating them into the imperial economic system.

Artistry: The design, typical of British colonial issues, was likely executed by engravers at the Royal Mint in London, adhering to the Neoclassical aesthetic prevalent during the Georgian period. The obverse features a laureate bust of King George III, a standard portrait conveying regal authority. The reverse typically displays the denomination "1/4 GUILDER" and date, often surmounted by a crown, emphasizing the coin's value and imperial origin with clear typography.

Technical/Grading: Struck in .816 silver, this small coin (1.94 gg, 16 mm) often exhibits variable strike quality, typical for early 19th-century colonial issues. High-points prone to wear include the highest curls of George III's hair, the laurel leaves in his wreath, and the crown details on the reverse. Collectors should also inspect for planchet imperfections or minor off-center strikes, common characteristics influencing grading and reflecting production methods of the period.

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