1886 Queen Victoria Farthing – Lustrous Example

1886 Queen Victoria Farthing – Bronze – Bun Head Type – Lustrous Example

This listing is for a genuine 1886 Bronze Farthing of Queen Victoria, struck at the Royal Mint, London. The coin features the youthful “Bun Head” portrait by Leonard Charles Wyon and the classic seated Britannia reverse — a hallmark of Victorian bronze coinage.

The 1886 issue belongs to the mid-period of the bronze Bun Head series and is a popular date among collectors for its sharp detail and well-balanced design. This particular example retains a pleasing degree of original mint lustre, unusual for coins of this age, and presents an attractive combination of detail, colour, and originality.

Historical Context

The farthing was Britain’s smallest circulating coin, representing a quarter of a penny, and was essential for everyday commerce throughout the 19th century. Leonard Charles Wyon’s “Bun Head” portrait, introduced in 1860, symbolised youth and stability during Victoria’s long reign. By 1886, the farthing was firmly established as a familiar denomination in Victorian society, used widely in local markets and trade.

Coin Details

Country: United Kingdom
Monarch: Queen Victoria (1837–1901)
Denomination: Farthing (¼d)
Date: 1886
Metal: Bronze
Weight: 2.83 g
Diameter: 20 mm
Edge: Plain
Mintage: Approximately 5,224,000

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 lighthouse to the left and ship to the right. The word FARTHING above and the date 1886 below.

Condition

This example displays excellent original surfaces with considerable remaining mint lustre and even chestnut-bronze tone. Light handling is visible but all fine details of the portrait and Britannia are crisp and well defined. The fields retain natural brilliance, giving the coin an appealing, near uncirculated appearance.

Collectors’ Notes

The 1886 Farthing is a mid-date issue in the Bun Head bronze series and one of the more eye-catching when found with lustre. These coins are increasingly difficult to locate in such original condition, making this piece an ideal choice for collectors seeking a high-grade Victorian bronze farthing with excellent visual appeal.

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