1 Lepton

Historical Context: The 1 Lepton, dated 1821, was issued by the United States of the Ionian Islands, a British protectorate established after the 1815 Treaty of Paris. This constitutional federation, comprising seven principal islands, operated under a British Lord High Commissioner. The year 1821 is notable for the start of the Greek War of Independence, a conflict that would profoundly influence regional politics. This coin represents an early example of the new currency system introduced by the British administration to stabilize the protectorate's economy.

Artistry: This 19mm copper 1 Lepton typically features the laureate bust of King George IV on the obverse, facing left, encircled by the legend "GEORGIUS IIII D:G: BRIT:REX F:D:". The reverse displays the winged Lion of St. Mark, holding seven arrows representing the Ionian Islands, with the denomination "IONIAN ISLANDS ONE LEPTON" and the date 1821. The design adheres to the British Neoclassical style of the Regency era, executed with a colonial interpretation, likely struck by a contractor or a local mint under British supervision.

Technical/Grading: Struck in copper, the 1821 1 Lepton typically shows wear on high points: the king's hair, laurel wreath, and bust on the obverse; and the lion's mane, wings, and arrow details on the reverse. Given copper coinage and colonial production, strikes can vary, often exhibiting weakness in central details or along the rims. Collectors should assess the sharpness of the legends and the definition of the lion's features for indications of strike quality and grade.