1874H Queen Victoria Halfpenny – Heaton Mint

1874H Queen Victoria Halfpenny – Heaton Mint – Bronze – Bun Head Type

This listing is for a genuine 1874H Bronze Halfpenny of Queen Victoria, struck at the Heaton Mint, Birmingham. The coin features the youthful “Bun Head” portrait of Victoria by Leonard Charles Wyon and the seated Britannia reverse, one of the most enduring and iconic designs of Victorian coinage.

The “H” mintmark below the date identifies this issue as being produced by the private Heaton Mint under contract to the Royal Mint, making it scarcer than the standard London issue. Well-struck examples with original colour and natural tone, such as this one, are increasingly sought after by collectors.

Historical Context

The Heaton Mint was commissioned to assist with bronze coin production during periods of high demand in the 1870s. Coins struck there bear a small “H” mintmark and are noted for their slightly sharper strikes and consistent quality. The 1874H issue is an excellent representation of the precision and craftsmanship of the Birmingham mint, produced during the height of Britain’s industrial and imperial expansion.

Coin Details

Country: United Kingdom
Monarch: Queen Victoria (1837–1901)
Denomination: Halfpenny (½d)
Date: 1874H
Mint: Heaton Mint, Birmingham (H mintmark below date)
Metal: Bronze
Weight: 5.67 g
Diameter: 25 mm
Edge: Plain
Mintage: Approximately 2,485,000

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 ship to the right. The word HALFPENNY above, and the date 1874 with an “H” mintmark below.

Condition

This example displays pleasing brown-bronze tone with strong detail in both portrait and reverse design. Light even wear consistent with honest circulation, with clear “H” mintmark visible beneath the date. Surfaces are natural and free from cleaning or corrosion, showing an attractive patina and full legibility.

Collectors’ Notes

The 1874H Halfpenny is the scarcer Heaton Mint variety of the mid-Victorian bronze coinage. The issue’s lower mintage and distinct mintmark make it an important inclusion for type and date collectors. Examples in original tone and strong condition such as this are increasingly difficult to source, particularly with well-preserved surfaces and clear detail.

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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 represent 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 assist.