Catalog
| Issuer | Danish West Indies (1730-1917) |
|---|---|
| Year | 1905 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 2 Cents (0.02) |
| Currency | Daler (1849-1905) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 5.95 g |
| Diameter | 27 mm |
| Thickness | 1.40 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | Obverse: Vilhelm Burchard Poulsen Reverse: Gunnar Jensen |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#76, Schön#3 |
| Obverse description | Crowned monogram |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
DANSK VESTINDIEN ♥ 1905 P. (Translation: Danish West Indies Christian IX) |
| Reverse description | Denomination |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
2 CENTS 10 BiT G.I. (Translation: 2 cent 10 bit) |
| Edge | Smooth |
| Mint |
❤ Royal Danish Mint (Den Kongelige Mønt), Copenhagen, Denmark (1739-date) |
| Mintage |
1905 P♥GI - - 150 000 1905 P♥GI - Prooflike (Specimen Strike) - 20 |
| Numisquare ID | 1501938540 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context:This 1905 2 Cents / 10 Bit coin from the Danish West Indies signifies the final years of Danish colonial rule under King Christian IX (1863-1906). The islands faced economic hardship and pressure for sale, eventually occurring in 1917. Minted just over a decade before the U.S. transfer, this bronze issue is a tangible artifact from a transitional era, embodying the unique dual-denomination monetary system of a fading European empire.
Artistry:The coin's design, KM#76, typically features a dignified obverse portrait of Christian IX, rendered in a conservative Realist style common to early 20th-century European royal coinage. Though the specific engraver is often uncredited, the artistry aligns with Royal Danish Mint standards. The reverse prominently displays the dual "2 Cents / 10 Bit" denomination and "1905" date, often with a royal monogram or crown, symbolizing Danish sovereignty and the islands' distinctive currency.
Technical/Grading:Struck in bronze, this 27 mm coin's high-points for grading include the hair, ear, and cheekbone on Christian IX's obverse portrait. On the reverse, sharpness of any crown details, clarity of the dual denomination lettering, and date crispness are crucial. Collectors should seek a strong, even strike, as bronze issues frequently exhibit softness in central or peripheral details, impacting the overall preservation of fine features.