1863 Queen Victoria Penny

1863 Queen Victoria Penny – Bronze – Bun Head Type – Early Issue

This listing is for a genuine 1863 Bronze Penny of Queen Victoria, struck at the Royal Mint, London. The coin features the youthful “Bun Head” portrait of Victoria by Leonard Charles Wyon and the classic seated Britannia reverse, one of the most famous designs in British numismatic history.

The 1863 issue is part of the early bronze coinage introduced in 1860, replacing the heavier copper pennies of the 19th century. These early bronze issues were produced with improved steam-powered presses, resulting in sharper details and more consistent quality. Coins from the first few years of this new series, such as 1863, are highly regarded for their craftsmanship and historic importance.

Historical Context

The introduction of bronze coinage in 1860 represented a major reform in British currency, reducing the size and weight of small denominations while improving production efficiency. The “Bun Head” design symbolised youth and progress, reflecting the optimism of the mid-Victorian era. Britannia’s seated figure on the reverse, holding trident and shield, evoked Britain’s maritime supremacy and imperial confidence during the height of the Industrial Revolution.

Coin Details

Country: United Kingdom
Monarch: Queen Victoria (1837–1901)
Denomination: One Penny (1d)
Date: 1863
Metal: Bronze
Weight: 9.45 g
Diameter: 30.8 mm
Edge: Plain
Mintage: Approximately 5,098,000

Design

Obverse: “Bun Head” portrait of Queen Victoria facing left, wearing a laurel wreath in her hair. Legend: VICTORIA D:G: BRITT: REG: F:D:. Designed by Leonard Charles Wyon.

Reverse: Britannia seated facing right, holding trident and shield, with a lighthouse to the left and a sailing ship to the right. The word ONE PENNY above and the date 1863 below.

Condition

This example displays good detail with even chocolate-brown tone and light circulation wear. All major features remain visible, including clear portrait detail and a well-defined Britannia figure. The surfaces are original and naturally toned, showing only minor handling marks typical for a coin of this age. A solid, problem-free mid-grade example of an early bronze penny.

Collectors’ Notes

The 1863 Penny is an early issue from the Bun Head bronze series and among the scarcer dates of the 1860s. These coins are popular with collectors for their historical significance as part of Britain’s first bronze coinage series. Well-preserved circulated examples, such as this one, are ideal for both type collections and Victorian date runs.

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