✅ SOLVED British Coin ... Not a what, but a who.

lenmac65

Silver Member
Jul 28, 2009
2,766
8,857
Massachusetts
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3
Detector(s) used
Garrett AT Pro, Equinox 800 (as of 10/2019)
Primary Interest:
Metal Detecting
I dug this coin in an inactive farm field in close proximity to an occupied colonial home. I knew it was British, as I saw Lady Britannia on the back shortly after digging it. After letting it dry for a few hours, I went to gently scrape the dirt off with a toothpick. Unfortunately, this coin was highly corroded, and the patina flaked right off. I managed to recover some detail by rubbing skin oil on it at the suggestion of a fellow T-Net poster. I am hoping some coin experts out there can identify the King, though that is asking an awful lot considering the condition. I am thinking it is a Charles II Farthing based on the size (less than an inch diameter), the left facing portrait, and how close Lady Britannia's head is to the rim. I also think I see an 'o" and maybe an "a" on the front, but that might be my imagination. This coin is obviously worth nothing in this condition, but I would sure love to know how old it is. Thanks for looking and for your ideas.
 

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I agree with Charles II - congratulations!

There are style differences to the bust and the Britannia figure that to my eye fit the Charles II and don't correlate as well to the George IIs. And if that is an "O" it is in the perfect spot.
 

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Probably George II.....Joe McDonough

He nailed it, George II.

I agree with Charles II - congratulations!

There are style differences to the bust and the Britannia figure that to my eye fit the Charles II and don't correlate as well to the George IIs. And if that is an "O" it is in the perfect spot.

Thank you all for your opinions. This coin is pretty far gone, so it is definitely a challenge to identify. I am torn between George II and Charles II, but still lean toward Charles. I found photos of George II and Charles II farthings. It seems the head of Lady Britannia on my coin is much closer to the rim than shown on the George II, and is actually similar to the Charles II coin. The positioning of her arms and the staff (?) she is holding also seems a bit more consistent with Charles II. I also think I see an A to the right of the Kings head, which could be part of CAROLO. Still hard to say; either way, this poor coin is toasted. Thanks for taking the time to look and opine!
Charles 2 non dug.jpg
George II Farthing non dug.jpg
 

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