GREAT BRITAIN. Silver Crown Pattern, "1837" (ca. 1893). Victoria

GREAT BRITAIN. Silver Crown Pattern, "1837" (ca. 1893). Victoria. PCGS PROOF-63.
S-Unlisted; KM-Unlisted; ESC-2612 (R2). Mintage: 150; Edge numbered "T 45". By Joseph Bonomi; Dies by Pinches. Though not of Royal Mint dies nor production, this proposed incuse Crown is among the most reflexively recognizable pieces that have become part of the British numismatic cannon. Conceived in the mind of the eclectic Joseph Bonomi the Younger, a man born into a family of architects, and adoptive of many further varied trades inclusive of Egyptologist and sculptor. The November 1837 minutes of the Numismatic Society of London include a description of Bonomi's highly original design for coinage, one where all the devices and legends were sunk under the surface into incuse relief. According to the record: "Mr. Bonomi's object is to suggest to the government a method of perpetuating the prolife likeness of her Majesty Victoria...". By sinking the devices, the portrait of the monarch could be spared wear; a highly novel concept, and one not implemented by any circulating coin until Bela Lyon Pratt's designs for the Quarter and Half Eagle were adopted by the United States. The 1837 minutes also include an illustration of Bonomi's design, heavily inspired by his classical tendencies. Victoria is presented wearing a diadem and surrounded by stars, representative of the Egyptian conception of the heavens. The reverse presents Britannia standing right, not seated as is normally encountered, holding Victory, and flanked by the legends "BRITT MINERVA" and "VICTRIX FID DEF". The reverse seeks to synthesize Greco-Roman elements into Victorian iconography; much as the obverse attempts the blend of British and Egyptian motifs. Despite Bonomi's inspiration, and the beautiful nature of the design, he never submitted it to the Crown for review, and the design remained an unexecuted drawing and a cast mold for many years.It appears that, circa 1893, the Pinches Medallists Company executed this design in a variety of medals and offered them for the price of 21 Shillings. Issues in silver were produced in the number of 150, with this example being numbered 45. Bonomi's original design was slightly modified, with a trident being added to Britannia's left hand, and the stars on the periphery being evened out. The resulting product is an incredibly beautifully piece that is nothing short of breathtaking. The antiquarian design is fully represented on the present specimen, offering impressive details and a splendidly soft and artful luster. Free of any distracting marking, this example stands out with a state of preservation to honor the design. Specimens of the type are quite elusive, making this Crown a must have for any premium collection of British numismatics. A near certainty to inspire much bidding and spirited competition. To view all items from the Mark and Lottie Salton Collection, click here.

From the Mark and Lottie Salton Collection.Ex: Herbert M. Lingford Collection (Glendining - 10/1950) Lot #145.

Estimate: $15000 - $30000