Catalogus
| Uitgever | Cyprus |
|---|---|
| Jaar | 1901 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Waarde | 9 Piastres (1/20) |
| Valuta | Pound (1879-1955) |
| Samenstelling | Silver (.925) |
| Gewicht | 5.65 g |
| Diameter | 23.7 mm |
| Dikte | |
| Vorm | Round |
| Techniek | Milled |
| Oriëntatie | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Graveur(s) | George William de Saulles |
| In omloop tot | |
| Referentie(s) | KM#6, Pr#10 |
| Beschrijving voorzijde | Crowned and veiled bust to left. DeS (=De Saulles) in relief below and in a circle inscription: VICTORIA•DEI•GRA•BRITT•REG•FID•DEF•IND•IMP• |
|---|---|
| Schrift voorzijde | Latin |
| Opschrift voorzijde | VICTORIA·DEI·GRA·BRITT· REG·FID·DEF·IND·IMP· DeS. |
| Beschrijving keerzijde | A crowned shield of arms with Lusignan lion on it which divides the date 1901. The crown rests on a scroll inscribed CYPRUS and the value is set out in words (NINE PIASTRES) around the lower edge of the design. |
| Schrift keerzijde | Latin |
| Opschrift keerzijde | CYPRUS 19 01 NINE PIASTRES |
| Rand | Reeded |
| Muntplaats | |
| Oplage |
1901 - - 600 000 1901 - Proof - |
| Numisquare-ID | 3973427270 |
| Aanvullende informatie |
Historical Context: The 1901 9 Piastres coin of Cyprus represents the final year of Queen Victoria's reign. Administered by Britain since 1878, Cyprus was firmly within the British colonial sphere. This coinage, with its distinctive 9 piastres denomination, reflects Britain's effort to establish a stable currency, integrating local traditions with Imperial standards. It marks a period of consolidating British influence before formal annexation in 1914, closing a significant chapter.
Artistry: The obverse features the 'Old Head' or 'Veiled Head' portrait of Queen Victoria, designed by Thomas Brock. This mature effigy, with its small crown and veil, embodies the dignified realism typical of late Victorian British portraiture. The reverse, likely by a Royal Mint engraver, displays "9 PIASTRES" and "1901" within a laurel wreath, surmounted by the Imperial Crown, with "CYPRUS" below. This design adheres to the heraldic simplicity prevalent in British colonial coinage, balancing imperial symbolism with clear denomination.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .925 fine silver, this coin measures 23.7 mm and weighs 5.65 grams. Key high-points for assessing wear on the obverse include the Queen's hair above the ear, the folds of the veil, and the small crown's details. On the reverse, the Imperial Crown and the edges of the laurel wreath are critical. Well-struck examples exhibit sharp details in lettering and intricate crown patterns. Weaker strikes may show softness in these areas, particularly the veil's fine lines and crown's jewels, impacting grade.