1723 Farth Hibernia - Silver Pattern

Coin Details

Auction Record

$2,483 PR45 06-01-2019 eBay

Description

This 1723 Wood's Hibernia Farthing Silver Pattern is a trial or experimental striking in silver, distinguished from the regular silver farthing by differences in die characteristics, edge treatment, or striking quality that identify it specifically as a pattern rather than a standard off-metal striking. Patterns in the Wood's Hibernia series were produced during the development phase of the coinage, when dies were being tested and designs finalized before mass production began. The obverse features the laureate bust of George I facing right with the royal legend, while the reverse displays the seated Hibernia with her harp and the HIBERNIA inscription dated 1723. As a pattern, this piece may exhibit sharper detail, different edge characteristics, or design elements that were modified before the production dies were finalized. Silver was the preferred metal for pattern strikings because it was soft enough to produce excellent impressions while being valuable enough to mark the piece as special. The distinction between a "Silver" striking and a "Silver Pattern" within the same date and denomination can be subtle but is recognized in major catalogues. Patterns from Wood's coinage operations provide direct evidence of the die development process at his Bristol mint and are studied by researchers seeking to understand the sequence of die production and the evolution of design elements during the series' preparation. This piece represents the most specialized and collectible tier of the Wood's Hibernia farthing series.

Rarity Notes

Extremely rare. Silver patterns of Wood's Hibernia farthings are among the rarest pieces in the series, known in only a handful of examples.

Cross References

PCGS #975; NGC #108054; Breen; Nelson; cf. PCGS #179 (Silver farthing), PCGS #173 (D:G:REX copper), PCGS #176 (DEI.GRATIA copper)