1862 Victoria One Penny – Attractive Lustrous Surfaces

1862 Victoria One Penny – Bronze Issue – Attractive Lustrous Surfaces 

This listing is for a genuine 1862 Bronze One Penny of Queen Victoria, struck at the Royal Mint, London. Featuring Leonard Charles Wyon’s detailed depiction of Britannia and the refined “bun head” portrait of Victoria, this issue represents one of the most beautifully engraved bronze coins of mid-Victorian Britain.

This particular coin displays subtle residual mint lustre with strong, crisp detail throughout. The fields remain smooth and evenly toned, with light chestnut and gold hues. Britannia’s trident, shield, and gown are clearly defined, and the Queen’s portrait shows excellent depth and texture. A pleasing, original example with attractive patina and honest surfaces.

Historical Context
By 1860, Britain transitioned from copper to bronze coinage due to improvements in minting technology and the rising price of copper. The 1862 penny is among the earliest of this new bronze series, combining artistry with technical precision. It helped establish the enduring bronze penny design that would last until decimalisation over a century later.

Coin Details
Country: United Kingdom
Monarch: Queen Victoria (1837–1901)
Denomination: One Penny (1d)
Date: 1862
Metal: Bronze
Weight: 9.45 g
Diameter: 31 mm
Edge: Plain
Mint: Royal Mint, London
Mintage: Approx. 50,000,000

Design
Obverse: “Bun Head” portrait of Queen Victoria facing left, legend VICTORIA D:G: BRITT: REG: F:D:
Reverse: Britannia seated right with trident and shield, lighthouse to left, ship to right, date below.
Designs by Leonard Charles Wyon.

Condition
A high-grade circulated example with remaining mint lustre and rich toning. Excellent definition across all high points, and smooth surfaces with light, even wear consistent with careful handling.

Collectors’ Notes
The 1862 bronze penny remains a sought-after issue from the early years of Britain’s new bronze coinage. Examples with original lustre and eye appeal such as this are increasingly scarce, especially with clean fields and sharp detail.