1887 Double Florin – Queen Victoria Jubilee Head

1887 Great Britain Double Florin – Queen Victoria Jubilee Head – Sterling Silver – “Barmaid’s Ruin”

This listing is for a genuine 1887 British Double Florin, struck in sterling silver (.925) during the reign of Queen Victoria. Issued only between 1887 and 1890, the Double Florin has become one of the most infamous coins of the Victorian era. Nicknamed the “Barmaid’s Ruin”, it was frequently mistaken for the larger crown, often leading to incorrect change being given in pubs.

Historical Context
The Double Florin was introduced as part of the Jubilee Coinage of 1887, created to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee. Its introduction was an attempt to simplify the coinage system, but the denomination proved unpopular in circulation. Because its size was so close to that of the crown, confusion was common, particularly in everyday trade.

Its short circulation life (withdrawn by 1890) and unique story have made the Double Florin a fascinating collectible. The obverse carries the Jubilee Head of Queen Victoria, a new portrait introduced in 1887 that sparked debate at the time for its small crown and stylised features. The reverse features a beautiful heraldic arrangement of crowned shields, reflecting the grandeur of the Empire at its height.

Coin Details

• Country: United Kingdom

• Monarch: Queen Victoria (1837–1901)

• Denomination: Double Florin (4 Shillings)

• Date: 1887

• Metal: Sterling Silver (.925)

• Weight: 22.6 g

• Diameter: 36 mm

Design

• Obverse: Jubilee bust of Queen Victoria facing left, crowned and veiled. Designed by Sir Joseph Edgar Boehm.

• Reverse: A cruciform arrangement of crowned shields representing England, Scotland, and Ireland, with sceptres in the angles and a central Order of the Garter star.

Condition
This is an original 1887 Double Florin. Please study the high-resolution photographs provided to form your own judgement of condition, as grading remains subjective.

Collectors’ Notes

• Known as the “Barmaid’s Ruin” due to confusion with the crown.

• Issued only from 1887–1890, giving the coin a short-lived place in circulation.

• A classic piece of Victorian numismatics, popular both with type collectors and as part of Jubilee year coin sets.

• Represents an unusual experiment in the British coinage system.

Our Guarantee & Terms

• We accept returns provided they are sent back tracked within 14 days of receipt.

• Condition on all our coins is subjective; we take very high-resolution photos so that you can judge the coin’s state for yourself.

• Any questions, please feel free to contact us directly – we are happy to help.