South Africa 1926 2-1/2 shillings
This specimen was lot 30606 in Heritage sale 3040 (Chicago, April 2015), where it sold for $22,325. The catalog description[1] noted, "George V 2-1/2 Shillings 1926 MS61 PCGS. While an attractive Mint State example, it has just the lightest evidence of handling which prevents this piece from achieving a higher technical grade. Still, though, this is a type that is rarely found in true Mint State condition." The 2½ shillings or half crown was struck in South Africa 1923-60. It was 0.800 fine silver until 1930 and 0.500 fine thereafter. The earlier issue (KM 19.1) varies from this type by having "2½ SHILLINGS 2½" in the reverse legend. This specimen realized 34 times the catalog value.
Recorded mintage: 205,000 plus 16 proofs.
Specification: 14.14 g, 0.800 fine silver, 32.3 mm diameter.
Catalog reference: KM 19.2.
- Michael, Thomas, and Tracy L. Schmidt, Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1901-2000, 47th ed., Iola, WI: Krause Publications, 2019.
- Hern, Brian, John Bothma and Hercie Pieterse, Hern's Handbook on South African Coins & Patterns, Ferndale, South Africa, 2013.
- [1]Bierrenbach, Cristiano, Warren Tucker and David Michaels, Heritage Signature Auction 3040, featuring the Santa Maria, the Alan Dean and the Valley View Life Collections, Dallas, TX: Heritage Auction Galleries, 2015.
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