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 1968.

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.

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 scan does not illustrate the proof features of this coin very well. The few 1968 proof pennies that exist all exhibit a slightly matt appearance compared to the 1962/63 proof pennies - for example. However when held beside an high grade circulation strike the overal quality of the proof coin is apparent.

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