1 Penny Cape of Good Hope, Bronze issue

Historical Context: The 1889 Cape of Good Hope 1 Penny was issued during the late Victorian era, under the reign of Queen Victoria. As a self-governing British colony, the Cape of Good Hope held significant strategic importance for the British Empire, serving as a vital maritime link. This bronze issue represents the colony's growing autonomy in currency production, providing essential local coinage for daily commerce, distinct from imperial issues, yet firmly within the British monetary system.

Artistry: The obverse typically features the 'Jubilee Head' effigy of Queen Victoria, designed by Sir Joseph Edgar Boehm, characteristic of British coinage from 1887. The reverse, designed by a Royal Mint engraver, presents a standing allegorical figure of Hope, leaning on an anchor, with the denomination and colony name. This classical revivalist design directly references the colony's name, embodying the Victorian artistic preference for allegorical symbolism and moralistic representation.

Technical/Grading: Struck in bronze, this coin typically measures 30.48mm and weighs 9.74g. Key high-points for wear assessment on the obverse include Victoria's hair over the ear and the details of her crown. On the reverse, Hope's face, the raised arm, and the details of the anchor are critical. Strikes can vary, with finer details in the drapery and hair sometimes appearing softly rendered, a common characteristic for bronze colonial issues of the period, impacting overall sharpness.