1773 Virginia Halfpenny - No Period

Coin Details

Auction Record

$11,400 MS65BN 01-24-2021 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1773 Virginia Halfpenny without a period after the date, one of the two major varieties of the only official coin authorized by a British colonial government in America. The Virginia colonial government arranged for these halfpennies to be struck at the Tower of London in 1773 to address a chronic shortage of small change in the colony. The obverse displays the crowned and draped bust of King George III facing right, with the legend GEORGIVS III REX. The reverse features the royal arms of Virginia — a quartered shield with the arms of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland — surrounded by the legend VIRGINIA and the date 1773. The "No Period" variety lacks the small dot or period after the date "1773" that appears on the companion variety. An estimated 4.5 to 6 tons of these halfpennies were shipped to Virginia, though many never entered circulation due to the onset of the American Revolution. Copper, approximately 25.5mm diameter, weighing about 7.5-8.5 grams, with a plain edge. These are among the most historically important colonial coins, representing the sole instance of a royal colonial coinage specifically authorized for a North American colony.

Rarity Notes

Common for the type. Large quantities were produced, and many survive in grades from Good through Mint State. High-grade examples with original color command significant premiums.

Cross References

PCGS #243; NGC #108093; Newman 1-A through various die marriages; Breen-185; Whitman-1580