1953 Penny mule - Rob / Bernie

[Colin88 54]

Hi Rob / Bernie,

Do you know what the story / history is behind this latter day mule penny.?...I also have seen three now advertised for sale ....although to be sure I cant recall if its the same one three times??

Thanks

Colin

[Peckris 579]

It was an early pattern design for the new coinage. It was obviously decided to go for a beaded approach both sides, perhaps after seeing these few pattern strikes? They probably struck a handful and melted (most of) them down. You could understand continuing with the old reverse, but as there was no demand for pennies between 1949 and 1961 (1950-51 was West Indies, 1952 and 1954 were VIP/experimental issues only, and the entire 1953 production run was for the sets), they probably thought they had plenty of time to play around. After all, George VI died early 1952 and the Coronation wasn't until mid-1953, so there WAS plenty of time.

[Bernie 203]

There are a few around, mostly from VIP proof sets BB/TB. Perhaps half a dozen, possibly more if the VIP proof sets are owned by VIP's that are not in the numismatic circle. Also at least one (Spink Auction December 2014) struck from sandblasted dies.

One other variation TB/TB exists and is thought to be unique.

[Colin88 54]

Thanks guys.....

[Peckris 579]

There are a few around, mostly from VIP proof sets BB/TB. Perhaps half a dozen, possibly more if the VIP proof sets are owned by VIP's that are not in the numismatic circle. Also at least one (Spink Auction December 2014) struck from sandblasted dies.

One other variation TB/TB exists and is thought to be unique.

That's the first known isn't it, the one in Michael Gouby's original British Bronze Penny?

[VickySilver 832]

I suspect this "mule" is somewhat more common that has been appreciated and that if more proof sets were examined, possibly the VIPs, that there would be more "discoveries"....I remember them showing up in Spink lists(SNC) in the good ole days as well.

[VickySilver 832]

I have only the blurry image on the Spink site of this coin. Does not look like the matte that came in the set of '53 or the '51 matte penny for that matter. Better picture would be nice.

[Bernie 203]

Better pictures of the spink auction pennies on "thesaleroom.com"