Expert: Brad Swain - 2/21/2010

Question
QUESTION: Hello, I'm writing to inquire about the estimated worth of a George II coin that I believe is a shilling. The front of the silver coin has a bust of the king, with the inscriptions GEORGIUS II DEI GRATIA. It looks like it says LIMA under the bust. On the back, is a cruciform of 4 shields with the letters M·B·F·ET· H·REX·F·D·B· ET·L·D·S·R·I· A·T·ET·E around the perimeter. Thank you for any information you can provide.

ANSWER: Hi Doreen, what is the date on the coin?
These British shillings were struck in 1745 and 1746 from seized Spanish silver from Lima, Peru.
This coin should weigh 6.02 grams and would contain .1790 of an ounce of silver.
Value depending on date, amount of wear and collector demand.
With more info I'll be glad to help further.
You might try Ebay.com for similar pieces for comparison.
You might also try a library for a copy of the Standard Catalog of World Coins for pictures, values and lots more interesting info.
Brad

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Brad, thank you for your speedy reply. The date appears to be 1746. There is some wear, especially around the edges, where it is a bit dented as well.
Thanks, Doreen

Answer
Hi Doreen, the 1746 collector value may be worth about $40 with heavy wear to around $150 with moderate wear to maybe $450 with light wear.
There is also an overdate variety that has the 6 over an existing 5 in the date that may be worth slightly more.
You might try Ebay.com for similar pieces for comparison.
You might also try a library for a copy of Coins of England by Spink for pictures, values and lots more interesting info.
Brad