PROOF HALFPENNY King George V 1935

Obverse: Coronate bust of George V to right legend around

Reverse: Denomination within legend date below

A superb type coin at an excellent price.

The copper proof coins struck by the Melbourne Mint in 1935 have been described by several experienced numismatists as being "...unsurpassed for the period."

As can be seen in the images of the example that we have here, the 1935 Melbourne copper proof coins were struck exceptionally well - all of the fine design detail remains incredibly clear and distinct right across both sides.

The fantastic quality of the surfaces clearly shows that the coin was struck from a specially annealed planchet - there is not a mark, ripple or bend to be seen either side.

The crispness of the edge denticles and the lettering in the legends either side is clearly the result of having been struck twice with fresh dies.

Detailed numismatic research into the archives of the Melbourne Mint by Vince Verheyen has determined that these copper proofs were effectively made by hand - they didn't drop down from the press into large boxes or pass through the Mint's normal handling system, but were shielded from the normal bumps and bruises that occur.

This particular coin exhibits a lovely satin and rose patina, and when it is moved in the hand, the surfaces easily show the reflectivity that is only seen on the finest proof coins.

The fact that the  market for Australian pre-decimal proof coins has eased considerably in recent years means that superb coins such as this are now available for a fraction of the price that they commanded.

My research into auction results for Australian proof coin shows that we have to go way back at least to 2002 before we see coins at the prices we're seeing at present.

There can be no question at all that although market prices for Australian proof coins are incredibly low, this is simply a function of a cyclical market, one that will turn in time.

I can't think of another asset class that currently offers the same value that coins such as this do!

PCGS have graded just six examples of this coin - 1 lower, 4 in this grade, and 1 higher.

We've endeavored to price this coin in line with recent auction results for comparable coins - contact us if you'd like more information on what similar coins have made in recent months and years.

At this price, we firmly believe that this is a superb type coin, at an excellent price. Perfect as a representation of the finest copper proof coins struck by the Melbourne Mint in the King George V period.

If you'd like to read more on the background to this wonderful coin, we suggest you dig out  the 2008 Yearbook Issue of the Australasian Coin and Banknote Magazine, as it has an excellent article written by Vince Verheyen on the man that had the most to do with the commercialization of the Melbourne Mint's proof coins during this period, H.G. Williams.  (If you purchase this coin and don't already have a copy, we'll include it free of charge).

SKU: 5139