Expert: Dmitry Livshits - 9/8/2009

Question
Hi there Dmitry,
I have in my possession a coin that seems of very high value. It is inscribed with "GEORGIUS IIII D:G: BRITANNIAR: REX F:D:" on the front and has a picture of St George slaying a dragon on the reverse side. On the edge the words "ANNO REGNI SECUNDO. DECUS ET TUTAMEN." appears. It is large and seems to made of silver. The condition is flawless and it seems like it has been used since only about 1990, the date though is 1822. Can you give me an approximate value of this coin? And maybe a dealer whom I can contact in regards to it?

Your help would be much appreciated.

Answer
Hi Johan,
You were correct about the high value. This is actually the better of two varieties for this date, the other having edge lettering "TERTIO" rather than "SECUNDO". A high grade example with minimal wear starts at $1,200 or so and a perfect mint condition coin with no wear an original luster goes up to $2,500-$3,000.
However, there are many more counterfeits of this coin than there are the genuine article. Your coin should weigh right around 28.2/28.3 grams. One that is a gram or more lighter, in excellent condition, is likely not authentic.
Thanks for the question! =)