Why the 1933 George V Penny Is One of the Rarest Coins in British History
The 1933 George V penny is one of the rarest and most coveted coins in British numismatic history. With only a handful known to exist, this elusive coin has captivated collectors and historians alike.
Its scarcity, combined with a fascinating backstory, has led to auction prices soaring into six figures.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the origins, rarity, and value of the 1933 George V penny, exploring why it holds such a legendary status among coin enthusiasts.
Origins of the 1933 George V Penny
In 1933, the Royal Mint did not produce pennies for general circulation due to a sufficient supply already in use.
However, a tradition existed of placing a complete set of coins, including a penny, beneath the foundation stones of significant buildings for ceremonial purposes.
To fulfill this custom, a limited number of 1933 pennies were struck. These coins were not intended for public use, making them exceptionally rare from the outset.
Why Is the 1933 George V Penny So Rare?
The rarity of the 1933 penny stems from its limited production and specific purpose. Only a small number were minted, primarily for ceremonial placements and institutional records.
No official records were kept regarding the exact number produced, but experts believe that only six or seven exist today. This scarcity has led to the coin being dubbed the “Holy Grail” of British coinage.
Known Examples and Their Whereabouts
The known specimens of the 1933 George V penny are accounted for as follows:
| Location | Details |
|---|---|
| Royal Mint Museum | Retains one specimen for historical preservation. |
| British Museum | Houses one example within its numismatic collection. |
| University of London’s Senate House | One coin placed beneath the foundation stone in 1933; still in situ. |
| Church of St Cross, Middleton, Leeds | Coin placed under foundation stone; stolen in 1970 and remains missing. |
| St Mary’s Church, Kirkstall, Leeds | Coin exhumed and sold to prevent theft. |
| Private Collections | Two known examples held by private collectors. |
The coin from the Church of St Cross was stolen during reconstruction work in 1970 and has never been recovered. To prevent a similar fate, the coin under St Mary’s Church was later exhumed and sold.
Design and Specifications
The 1933 George V penny features the following design elements:
- Obverse: Portrait of King George V facing left, with the inscription “GEORGIVS V DEI GRA: BRITT: OMN: REX FID: DEF: IND: IMP:”
- Reverse: Seated Britannia holding a trident and shield, with the words “ONE PENNY” and the date “1933” below.
The coin is made of bronze, measuring 30.8 mm in diameter and weighing 9.4 grams.
Auction Records and Market Value
Due to its rarity, the 1933 George V penny commands significant sums at auction. Notable sales include:
- In 2016, a specimen sold for £72,000 at auction.
- Another example fetched £127,248 when sold alongside a rare Lavrillier pattern piece.
- Recent estimates suggest that a 1933 penny in excellent condition could be worth up to £200,000.
The value of the coin depends on factors such as condition, provenance, and market demand.
The Lavrillier Pattern Penny
In addition to the standard 1933 penny, a pattern version was created by French engraver André Lavrillier. This design featured a different portrait of King George V but was ultimately rejected for circulation.
Only four examples of the Lavrillier pattern penny are known to exist, making them even rarer than the standard 1933 penny. One such coin sold for £86,400 at auction in 2016.
Common Misconceptions and Forgeries
Given its fame and value, the 1933 George V penny has been the subject of numerous forgeries and misconceptions.
Some individuals mistakenly believe they possess a 1933 penny when they actually have a more common 1936 version.
Collectors should be cautious and seek professional authentication if they suspect they have a genuine 1933 penny.
The 1933 George V penny stands as a testament to the allure of rare coins and the rich history they embody.
Its limited production, ceremonial purpose, and the mystery surrounding its few known specimens have cemented its status as the “Holy Grail” of British coinage.
For collectors and historians alike, the 1933 penny represents not just a monetary value but a tangible connection to a unique moment in numismatic history.
FAQs
How can I identify a genuine 1933 George V penny?
A genuine 1933 penny will have the date clearly inscribed beneath the seated Britannia on the reverse side. However, due to the prevalence of forgeries, it’s essential to have the coin authenticated by a reputable numismatist or auction house.
Is it possible to find a 1933 penny in circulation?
Given that the 1933 penny was never released for general circulation and only a few were produced for ceremonial purposes, the likelihood of finding one in everyday change is virtually nonexistent.
What should I do if I think I have a 1933 penny?
If you believe you possess a 1933 George V penny, consult with a professional coin dealer or numismatic expert for verification. Avoid attempting to sell or trade the coin until its authenticity has been confirmed.
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