1 Cent - George VI

Historical Context: Issued by Newfoundland from 1938 to 1947, this 1 Cent coin marks a pivotal era under King George VI. It represents Newfoundland's final independent coinage before its 1949 Confederation with Canada. Circulating during World War II, a period of immense strategic and economic transformation, the coin underscored Newfoundland’s status as a British dominion, even under Commission of Government since 1934. It serves as a tangible link to the island's pre-Confederation identity.

Artistry: The obverse features Thomas Humphrey Paget’s uncrowned effigy of King George VI, facing left, a design widely adopted across the British Commonwealth. The reverse, likely by George Kruger Gray, displays the denomination "1 CENT" within a graceful maple leaf wreath, with "NEWFOUNDLAND" above and the date below. This design exemplifies traditional British medallic art, combining a dignified royal portrait with a symbolic, botanical motif characteristic of the issuing territory.

Technical/Grading: Struck in bronze (Cu 95.5%, Sn 3%, Zn 1.5%), this coin measures 19.05 millimeters and weighs 3.24 grams. Key high-points for wear assessment include the King's hair and ear on the obverse, and the central veins and tips of the maple leaves, along with the raised lettering on the reverse. Well-struck examples retain crisp detail. The robust bronze composition, standard for low denominations, generally ensures good detail retention, though heavy circulation softens the highest relief.