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(1616) Sommer Islands Twopence

Strike Type
(1616) Sommer Islands Twopence

Coin Details

Year
1616
Denomination
Colonials
Strike Type
Regular Strike
Series
Pre-1776 Private and Regional Issues (1616-1766)
Designer
Unknown (possibly prepared at the Royal Mint, London, c.1615-1616)
Composition
Copper-tin alloy (~80% Cu, ~16-22% Sn) with silver wash
Weight
1.5g
Diameter
17mm
Edge
Plain

Description

The Sommer Islands twopence is the smallest denomination in the Hogge Money series, the earliest English coinage struck for use in the Americas. The obverse features a wild hog facing left with the Roman numeral "II" above, denoting the twopence value, and a star between the hog's legs. The reverse depicts a ship sailing left with the letters "S" and "I" flanking the vessel, abbreviating "Sommer Islands." Unlike the larger denominations, the twopence lacks the "SOMMER ILANDS" border legend.

Rarity Notes

Extremely rare. Estimated 8-12 surviving examples in all grades. Two varieties known: Large Star and Small Star.

Cross References

Breen 6-7, W-11400/W-11410, BMA Type One/Two

External References

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