1893 Melbourne Veiled Head Half Sovereign

The 1855 half sovereign is often regarded as the key Australian half sovereign, but the 1893 Melbourne veiled head holds the real crown. Numismatists are unsure why so few were minted, and believe that most coins issued that year were of a different design. General use in trade and subsequent recycling of used coinage further reduced the already small mintage. Today, just seven or eight currency coins are known, all worn to varying degrees by circulation. Two are in the Royal Australian Mint collection, and at least one has been rejected by PCGS for damage. The present coin is a problem-free example, with wear, scratches, and hairlines commensurate with many years in circulation. Whilst no gem, it is pleasing to the eye will full rims, clear denticles, and lightly toned areas about the legend; the planchet is unbent, which is unusual for a circulated half sovereign in this grade. If you are a serious half sovereign collector seeking to build a complete half sovereign set, or an accumulator of major Australian rarities, this coin is an essential acquisition. Valued at $70,000 in Fine condition in the latest Renniks.