Irish Coinage
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Detail Image

© 2002 - Copyright
John_Stafford-Langan
Version 1.10
7th September, 2002

This coin is a proof Irish Penny - struck at the British Royal Mint in 1963.

With the exception of the 1928 proofs (of which 6,001 (+50) sets were made) and the proof 1966 10 shillings (of which 20,000 were made) Irish pre-decimal proofs are scarce.

The 1962 and 1963 pennies were struck in limited quantities. A mintage figure of 70 of each has been suggested, but not substantiated. These two proofs are the next most common of the series. All the other proofs tend to have quantities in single figures and many coins are only represented by a single proof specimen - generally in the British Museum.

It is important to distinguish between a proof striking and a high quality circulation strike - the frosted devices, mirror fields and the sharply defined edge are characteristics of the proof coins.

This example is in uncirculated condition, but it has toned to a dark colour - a brighter colour would be more desireable. The surfaces are dusty and unless the dust is removed it could result in spotting of the surfaces over time.

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