1723 Twopence Rosa Americana - Silvered

Coin Details

Auction Record

$41,125 SP65 03-09-2017 Kagin's

Description

This 1723 Rosa Americana Twopence in silvered finish is a special presentation or pattern striking that was plated or washed with silver over the standard Bath metal planchet. The silver coating gives the coin a dramatically different appearance from the golden-hued regular issues, transforming the familiar design into something approximating a silver coin. The obverse features the laureate bust of George I with the royal legend, while the reverse shows the crowned Tudor rose with ROSA AMERICANA VTILE DVLCI. Silvered examples of the Rosa Americana series are known for several dates and denominations, and they have been produced as presentation pieces for officials, potential investors, or collectors rather than for general circulation. The silvering process involved applying a thin layer of silver to the surface of the finished coin, either through mercury amalgamation or by dipping in a silver solution. Over time, much of the original silvering on surviving examples has worn away, with traces often visible in protected areas of the design. The practice of creating silvered versions of base-metal coins was common in the eighteenth century for promotional purposes, and these pieces document William Wood's marketing efforts for his colonial coinage venture. The 1723 Twopence silvered is among the most desirable varieties in the series, combining the large format of the Twopence denomination with the rarity of the special surface treatment.

Rarity Notes

Very rare. Silvered Rosa Americana Twopence pieces are known in very small numbers. The special surface treatment indicates a presentation or promotional purpose.

Cross References

PCGS #149508; Martin attribution; cf. PCGS #128 (standard 1723 Twopence)