Catalog
| Issuer | Iceland |
|---|---|
| Year | 1926-1942 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 5 Aurar (0.05 ISJ) |
| Currency | Old króna (1885-1980) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 6 g |
| Diameter | 24.00 mm |
| Thickness | 2.00 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#7, Schön#3, SIEG#6, SIEG#7, Hede#7 |
| Obverse description | Royal monogram of King Christian X of Denmark topped with a crown. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
ÍSLANDS KONUNGUR 19 40 C X (Translation: King of Iceland) |
| Reverse description | Face value at the center, with ornaments to left and right. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
ÍSLAND 5 AURAR (Translation: Iceland 5 Aurar) |
| Edge | Smooth |
| Mint |
Royal Danish Mint (Den Kongelige Mønt), Copenhagen, Denmark (1739-date) Royal Mint (Tower Hill), London,United Kingdom (1810-1975) |
| Mintage |
1926 HCN; GJ - KM#7.1 - 355 431 1931 N; GJ - KM#7.1 - 311 443 1940 - KM#7.2 - 1 000 000 1940 - KM#7.2 - Proof - 1942 - KM#7.2 - 2 000 000 |
| Numisquare ID | 3273762300 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 5 Aurar coin of Christian X, minted 1926-1942, reflects a pivotal era for Iceland. Christian X reigned as King of Denmark and Iceland, a personal union established in 1918 granting Iceland sovereignty under a shared monarch. This period marked Iceland's gradual assertion of national identity, culminating in full independence in 1944. The coin served as a fundamental denomination during the interwar years and early World War II, a time of political and economic transformation.
Artistry: The 5 Aurar coin's design exemplifies early 20th-century Scandinavian utilitarian coinage, likely influenced by the Danish Royal Mint. No specific engraver is widely documented. The obverse features Christian X's crowned monogram, 'CX', symbolizing royal authority, with the date below. The reverse states "5 AURAR" and "ÍSLAND," typically framed by a simple decorative border or wreath. This artistic approach prioritizes legibility and functionality, ideal for circulation.
Technical/Grading: Struck in bronze (6g, 24.00mm), the 5 Aurar coin was designed for durability. High-points prone to wear include the raised crown elements on the obverse, particularly its arches and orb, and the upper serifs of the 'C' and 'X' in the monogram. On the reverse, the lettering of "AURAR" and "ÍSLAND," plus any fine details within the wreath, would show wear first. Strike quality varies; some exhibit softness in finer crown details, though primary legends are generally well-defined.