© Heritage Auctions
© Heritage Auctions
½ Penny - Charles II small letters
| Copper | - | 26.5 mm |
| Issuer | Ireland |
|---|---|
| King | Charles II (1645-1685) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1681-1684 |
| Value | ½ Penny (1⁄480) |
| Currency | Second Irish Pound (1460-1826) |
| Composition | Copper |
| Diameter | 26.5 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#26728 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 70% |
Reverse
Royal crown above Irish harp
Script: Latin
Lettering:
16 82
MAG.BR.FRA.ET.HIB.REX
Interesting fact
This coin was minted during a time of great change in Ireland. The 1680s saw the English Crown take control of Ireland, and the coinage was changed to reflect this. The ½ penny coin was introduced as a new denomination, and it featured a portrait of Charles II, who was the King of England, Scotland, and Ireland at the time. The coin was made of copper, which was a more affordable material than the silver or gold used in other coins, making it more accessible to the general population. Despite its small value, the ½ penny coin played an important role in the economy of Ireland during this time, and it remains a valuable collector's item today.
