1874 Queen Victoria Fourpence (Groat) – Lustrous Example

1874 Queen Victoria Fourpence (Groat) – Sterling Silver – Young Head – Lustrous Example

This listing is for a genuine 1874 Silver Fourpence of Queen Victoria, struck in sterling silver (.925) at the Royal Mint, London. The coin features the youthful “Young Head” portrait of Victoria by William Wyon and the elegant crowned numeral reverse — one of the most graceful and balanced designs of the early Victorian silver series.

The 1874 issue belongs to the final years of the circulating fourpence denomination, which was gradually phased out after the 1850s but continued to be struck in small quantities for Maundy and colonial use. The type remains highly collectable today for its compact size, fine engraving, and brilliant prooflike surfaces.

Historical Context

The fourpence, or “groat,” was originally introduced in the 1830s to simplify small transactions and served as a convenient coin in both domestic and colonial trade. By the 1870s, its role had largely been supplanted by bank tokens and the growing popularity of the bronze coinage introduced in 1860. The 1874 issue is one of the last struck for general use, making it a desirable later-date example of this long-running Victorian denomination.

Coin Details

Country: United Kingdom
Monarch: Queen Victoria (1837–1901)
Denomination: Fourpence (Groat)
Date: 1874
Metal: Sterling Silver (.925)
Weight: 1.9 g
Diameter: 16 mm
Edge: Milled
Mintage: Approximately 264,000

Design

Obverse: “Young Head” portrait of Queen Victoria facing left. Legend: VICTORIA D:G: BRITANNIAR: REGINA F:D:. Designed by William Wyon.

Reverse: Crowned numeral “4” surrounded by oak and laurel wreaths tied with a bow below, with date 1874 divided by the figure.

Condition

This example displays bright silver surfaces with strong lustre and minimal wear. The strike is sharp, showing fine detail in both the portrait and wreath. Light cabinet toning enhances the fields, giving the coin an attractive and original appearance. A highly presentable example of this later-date silver groat with appealing eye appeal.

Collectors’ Notes

The 1874 Fourpence is a desirable date in the later series, struck in sterling silver and featuring the timeless William Wyon portrait. Its compact size and elegant design make it a favourite among collectors of Victorian small silver. This particular coin, with original lustre and pleasing tone, represents an excellent mid-19th-century specimen for a type or date collection.

Our Guarantee & Terms

We accept returns provided they are sent back tracked within 14 days of receipt. All photographs are of the actual coin for sale and accurately depict its condition. Grading is subjective — please refer to the high-resolution images to form your own assessment. Any questions, please feel free to contact us directly; we are always happy to help.