EDWARD VIII HALFPENNY, 1937



Reverse die trial, ship sailing. Dated 1937, struck by the Royal Mint

Coinage of Edward VIII is considered as the “Holly Grail” of milled coinage. Edward VIII  announced his intended marriage to the American divorcee Wallis Simpson, something which was at the time viewed as a religious and political disgrace.  He abdicated the throne on 10th December 1936, having only succeeded his father on 20th January that year.

No coins of Edward VIII were issued for currency within the United Kingdom bearing his name and portrait. The Royal Mint had commenced work on a new coinage prior to his abdication and this was when this amazing piece was struck.

Earlier this year a 1937 Proof Set of Edward VIII (1 of only 4 struck) sold for a staggering £1,350,000 to a American Coin Dealer.

IN PLASTIC HOLDER & GRADED BY NGC as PF65 . UNIQUE AND OF THE HIGHEST OF RARITY

£7,500

Provenance:

B. Ebsen Collection, Superior Galleries [Beverly Hills] Auction, 7-10 June 1987, lot 7066

D. Campbell Collection, DNW Auction lot 911, 9th Dec 2003

St. James Auctions, Auction 12, Lot 667, 5th & 6th Nov’ 2009