1893 Victoria Farthing – Superb Lustre and Eye Appeal

1893 Victoria Farthing – Veiled Head Type – Superb Lustre and Eye Appeal

This listing is for a genuine 1893 Bronze Farthing of Queen Victoria, struck at the Royal Mint, London. This late-Victorian issue features the mature “Veiled Head” portrait, introduced in 1893, and represents one of the final copper-bronze pieces of Victoria’s reign before the turn of the century.

This particular coin exhibits superb original lustre with vibrant golden and rose undertones. The strike is crisp, showing intricate hair detail and strong features of Britannia. Very little handling wear is visible, making this a premium example with strong eye appeal.

Historical Context

The 1893 farthing marked the introduction of Thomas Brock’s new effigy of Queen Victoria, replacing the long-used Jubilee Head design. This change reflected the Queen’s age and the Empire’s maturity, while the reverse continued Leonard Charles Wyon’s enduring depiction of Britannia — a symbol of maritime strength and unity across the empire.

Coin Details

Country: United Kingdom
Monarch: Queen Victoria (1837–1901)
Denomination: Farthing (¼d)
Date: 1893
Metal: Bronze
Weight: 2.83 g
Diameter: 20 mm
Edge: Plain
Mint: Royal Mint, London
Mintage: Approx. 4,300,000

Design

Obverse: Veiled (Old) Head of Queen Victoria facing left, legend VICTORIA D:G: BRITT: REG: F:D:.
Reverse: Britannia seated facing right, holding trident and shield, legend FARTHING with date below.
Designers: Thomas Brock and Leonard Charles Wyon.

Condition

Exceptional lustrous example with nearly full mint brilliance. Fields remain reflective with subtle toning that enhances depth and originality. Minor contact marks only, consistent with careful preservation.

Collectors’ Notes

This is one of the finest attainable examples of a late-Victorian bronze farthing, combining strong detail with original colour and mint bloom. Highly sought after by collectors seeking superior eye appeal and originality in pre-1900 bronze coinage.