The 8 is cut over a 7 either because the 7 is a mistake, or in the case of successive years as here, usually because the die was not worn out at the date changeover and so used on the grounds of economics. Additionally, sometimes the underlying year had dies produced but not used. Rather than throw the dies away they were cut with the new date or initial mark to ensure they were compliant with other dies and put to use. Hi so are there two of that type (1888 1888/7) ? and if so how do i tell the difference . thanks You've chosen a funny one there, because all 1888 shillings are actually 1888/7. If you have an 1888 shilling, get yourself a cheap 30x jewellers loupe, and have a close look under good light. That'll show you what you're looking for - a clear overdate, if the grade is high enough. thank you, that's one more thing ticked off my long list of questions