2 Pence

Historical Context: Issued in 1616 under King James I, the Bermuda 2 Pence coin marks a pivotal moment in early English colonial numismatics. Often called "Hogge Money," these coins were authorized by the Somers Isles Company to facilitate trade and address currency scarcity in the nascent Bermuda colony. Their issuance predates many other colonial issues, highlighting Bermuda's early strategic importance and settler needs.

Artistry: The engraver of the 1616 Bermuda 2 Pence remains anonymous, typical for early colonial coinage. The design, while utilitarian, possesses a distinct charm reflecting its purpose. The obverse features a wild boar, or "hog," facing left, encircled by "SOMMER ISLANDS." This imagery references the wild pigs, a crucial food source for colonists. The reverse depicts a ship under sail, symbolizing the vital maritime link to England and the colony's dependence on sea trade, date 1616 below.

Technical/Grading: Struck in brass, the 1616 Bermuda 2 Pence typically exhibits variable strike quality. Key high-points for assessing wear include the boar's snout, back, and legs. On the reverse, the sails and mast details of the ship are critical. Due to striking methods and brass planchets, examples often show weakness in peripheral legends and central details. Planchet imperfections, like laminations or irregular shapes, are common. Corrosion is also frequently observed, given the coin's age and humid Bermudan environment.