Hong Kong 1872-H 20 cents
This specimen was lot 25071 in Heritage sale 3026 (Long Beach, October 2013), where it sold for $9,400. The catalog description[1] noted, "Victoria 20 Cents 1872/68-H, MS66 NGC, a gorgeous and fully original coin with aged silvery-gray and iridescent blue-green patina. The surfaces are virtually flawless and the overall eye appeal is dramatic. Very rare in this exclusive quality. Variety with the 72 punched over 68 (not mentioned on the holder)." The British set up a mint in Hong Kong in 1866 which struck mils through dollars. It does not seem to have been a success as the mint was closed in 1868. In 1872, Hong Kong began receiving twenty cent coins from the Heaton mint and in 1873 from the Royal mint. This type was minted steadily until 1898 tho it is scarce in nice condition, suggesting hard use. The 1872/68 overdate obtains a slight premium.
Recorded mintage: 64,000 plus a few proofs.
Specification: 5.43 g, 0.800 fine silver, .139 troy oz ASW.
Catalog reference: KM-7, Mars-C28.
- Michael, Thomas, and Tracy L. Schmidt, Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1801-1900, 9th ed., Iola, WI: Krause Publications, 2019.
- Illustrated Catalog of Hong Kong Currency, Hong Kong: Mars Numismatic Co., 2012.
- [1]Bierrenbach, Cristiano, Warren Tucker and Scott Cordry, Heritage Signature Auction 3026, World & Ancient Coins, featuring the RLM Collection, Part Two, the Nogales Collection and the Goetz Medals Die Archive, Dallas, TX: Heritage Auction Galleries, 2013.
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