© Dix Noonan Webb
© Dix Noonan Webb
4 Shillings 1½ Pence Type I countermark on French 1 Écu ND
1801 year| Silver (.917) | 10.80 g | 41 mm |
| Issuer | Tortola (British Virgin Islands) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Year | 1801 |
| Value | 4 Shillings 1½ Pence |
| Currency | Dollar (1801-1825) |
| Composition | Silver (.917) |
| Weight | 10.80 g |
| Diameter | 41 mm |
| Shape | Half circle |
| Technique | Countermarked, Cut |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-08 |
| Numista | N#157382 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Cut French 1 Écu piece, which has a crowned shield surrounded by legend.
Script: Latin
Lettering: [SIT] NOMEN · DOMINI · [BENEDICTUM]
Translation: [Blessed be the name of the Lord]
Edge
Inscription in relief
Script: Latin
Lettering: [DOMINE · SALVUM · FAC · REGEM]
Translation: [Lord, save the French King]
Comment
Countermark on a 1/2 cut of French 1 Écu; the countermark may either appear on the obverse or reverse.Only two examples are known.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it was created as a form of currency for the British Virgin Islands during a time when the islands were facing a severe shortage of coinage. The British government authorized the creation of these coins, which were made from silver and featured a unique countermark on a French écu coin, to address the issue. This coin is a rare and valuable example of a coin that was created to address a specific economic need in a particular region.
