August 2nd 2011
Next club meeting Monday 5th September 2011
Meetings are held
at the
NOTICES
There are still a few stragglers for returning the Census
forms, please can you do so as soon as possible to
ensure that we have correct and up-to-date information for you!
August Meeting – The Summer Social – Trip to the
British Museum
For this year’s Summer Social 13 members made a visit
to the British Museum. Hosted by Mr Barry Cook we were entertained in the coin
room, where we were able to examine at close quarters the coins requested by
members. Many of these coins can be classed as extremely rare and well outside
the financial reach of the general public.
First up were two trays of Charles 1st
siege pieces, mainly of Scarborough. These coins are very rare by any measure
and to see so many in different shapes and sizes was a sight to behold.
Next came a brilliant mint
state set of coins of Edward the 8th where even the copper was BU.
It must be the best set in existence. Keeping up the standard this was followed
by a tray of Una & the Lion £5 pieces. The three
were in gold were practically flawless. The ones in silver were also most
attractive, one being the same design as the £5 while another had the larger
head of the young head crown. Also on this tray were two unusual pattern crowns
in gold, each the size of a third farthing.
For the copper enthusiast two trays of Queen Anne
pattern halfpennies and farthings were produced, some of which were in gilt
copper. The extent of these varieties was truly amazing. Also just for good
measure, the tray also included a superb proof halfpenny of George 1st.
Then came something completely different; 2000 year
old examples of Chinese spade and key money from the Emperor Wang Mang. To enlighten the uninitiated Dave McGurk
gave us a potted history of this usurper. Wang was Regent to the boy emperor,
but having tasted power disposed of the boy and assumed the position of emperor
himself. While he was a reasonable emperor and produced good coinage he was not
universally liked. Thus he was also assassinated and the Hang dynasty
reinstated. David pointed out that on one coin some of the lettering was
highlighted in gold, which is a very rare survivor. Carrying on with the
ancient theme next up were several fine Greek Tetradrachm’s from Syracuse. These rare and very
expensive large classical coins have on the reverse of a chariot pulled by four
horses known as a Quadriga, while the obverse has the
head of Apollo. It is really astounding that objects of such beauty and
outstanding art work were produced so soon after the birth of coinage. Now
coming back in time the next offering was two trays of Scottish countermarked
dollars, the majority of which were from the Manville collection which are
illustrated in his book ‘Tokens of the
Industrial Revolution’. It was interesting to see so many differing marks, but
noting that some coins and/ or marks were fakes. Finally we were able to see
examples of Charles 1st counters and 17th century tokens
from the West Country.
Following the close encounters members were free to
spend some time viewing the ‘Money Gallery’. The extensive displays cover many
aspects of world coinage, including the development of coins from the year dot,
manufacture and many of the more interesting stories associated with coins. And
the numerous coins and medals from GB and around the world used to illustrate
the displays are truly outstanding. This must be one of the best public
displays of coins ever put on show and is well worth a visit before it closes
shortly for a 6 months makeover.
We are indebted to the BM for hosting our visit, and
Mr Cook in particular, for fulfilling all the ‘wished to see items’ requested
by our members. A most enjoyable day was had by all, so many thanks to the BM.
Future Events
Past Events
·
10 years ago – A trip to the British Museum
Club
Secretary