Description
Anne (1702-1714), Pre-Union, Guinea, 1702, first diademed and draped bust left, rev. crowned shields
cruciform, pellet above, rose at centre, emblem-adorned sceptres in angles, seven strings to harp, edge
obliquely milled, 8.35g, (EGC 458 [R2]; Schneider II, 525; MCE 209; Spink 3562). About extremely fine,
with much underlying brilliance.
The first issue Pre-Union Guineas of Queen Anne have always been considered rare, with only five
dates on offer; 1702 (also in plain edge proof),1705, 1706 and 1707. The last date in the aforementioned
five year date of issue is the highly coveted 1703 Vigo below bust, of which we auctioned an example
in January 2019, hammering for $80,000 without premium. These are extremely rare in any grade. 1702
being the first year of issue for the Pre-Union Guinea, there are two clear differences in place when
contrasted to a post Union equivalent denomination. A) The reverse has a rose at its centre, post Union
this is exchanged for the classic garter star at centre. B) The Pre-Union shields evolve into a post Union
royal arms, where the English lions and Scottish lion are emblazoned together in the top and bottom
shields.
