(1722) Twopence Rosa Americana - with Ribbon

Coin Details

Auction Record

$9,200 CH UNC 05-01-2005 Stack's

Description

This undated Rosa Americana Twopence, attributed to circa 1722, is distinguished by a ribbon device incorporated into the reverse design around or near the crowned rose. It is among the earliest issues in the Rosa Americana series, which was authorized by a patent granted to William Wood by King George I in 1722 to produce copper and brass coinage for the American colonies. The obverse features a laureate bust of George I facing right with the royal legend, while the reverse displays the crowned Tudor rose that gives the series its name, accompanied by the motto ROSA AMERICANA VTILE DVLCI ("American Rose, the useful with the pleasant"). The "with Ribbon" variety is identifiable by the addition of decorative ribbon elements to the reverse die, setting it apart from the standard undated issues. The coins were struck in Bath metal, Wood's proprietary alloy of approximately 75% copper, 20% zinc, and 5% silver, which gave them a distinctive golden color. Despite the royal backing, Rosa Americana coins met with resistance in the colonies due to their light weight and the perception that they were an unwelcome imposition from London. The series saw limited actual circulation, and most surviving examples show relatively little wear, having been saved as curiosities rather than spent in commerce.

Rarity Notes

Rare. The undated "with Ribbon" variety is one of the scarcer issues in the Rosa Americana series. PCGS estimates fewer than 200 surviving examples across all grades.

Cross References

PCGS #92; Nelson 2; Martin 1.1-B.1; Breen 130