New Zealand 1955 shilling
This specimen was lot 30306 in Heritage sale 3040 (Chicago, April 2015), where it sold for $2,820. The catalog description[1] noted, "Elizabeth II Proof Shilling 1955 PR66 Cameo NGC. An enchanting, silvery-gray selection with glossy fields that exhibit golden and electric blue highlights that encircle the crouched Maori warrior. Currently, this offering is one of only two certified examples of this date in a Proof Cameo designation, with none graded finer. A true jewel, absolutely coveted by commonwealth collectors when in this deluxe classification." New Zealand did not receive her own coinage until 1933, British coins being used heretofore. Issue of pennies and half pennies did not begin until 1940. This type, with no shoulder fold on the queen's dress, was minted 1953-55. The 1955 is scarce.
Recorded mintage: 600,000 plus a few proofs.
Specification: 5.65 g, copper-nickel, 23.62 mm diameter.
Catalog reference: KM 27.1.
- Michael, Thomas, and Tracy L. Schmidt, Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1901-2000, 47th ed., Iola, WI: Krause Publications, 2019.
- [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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