10 Lepta Pattern
1847 year| Copper | 14.23 g | 28 mm |
| Issuer | Greece |
|---|---|
| King | Otto (1832-1862) |
| Type | Pattern |
| Year | 1847 |
| Value | 10 Lepta (0.10) |
| Currency | First modern drachma (1832-1944) |
| Composition | Copper |
| Weight | 14.23 g |
| Diameter | 28 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#408538 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Denomination and date in three lines within a laurel wreath tied above and below.
Script: Greek
Lettering:
10
ΛΕΠΤΑ
1847
Engraver: Konrad Lange
Edge
Plain
Comment
Large Crown Pattern, unique. Cancellation mark on reverse.
From Nomos : In the year 1847 a notable modification occurred in the design of King Otho's copper coins: a new design, by Lange was approved for all the bronze coins, the coat of arms on the obverse was reduced in size and the wreath on the reverse became more elaborate.
The present coin is the sole known pattern testifying to Kurt Lange's unsuccessful endeavor to renovate King Otho's bronze coinage. Eventually the dies were not approved (note the cancellation mark on the reverse) but nevertheless in 1849 a limited number of coins were struck from the same master dies (with the alteration of the date) and escaped into circulation.
Interesting fact
The Pattern 10 Lepta coin was designed by the famous French engraver and medalist, Jean-Baptiste Mercier, who was commissioned by the Greek government to create a new currency for the country. Mercier's design features a depiction of the Greek goddess Athena on the obverse side of the coin, while the reverse side features an image of a phoenix rising from the ashes, symbolizing the rebirth of Greece as a nation. This coin was never put into circulation, but it remains a popular collector's item among numismatists today.
