Description
Anne (1702-1714), Pre-Union, Guinea, 1702, first draped bust left, toothed borders both sides, legend surrounds ANNA DEI GRATIA. Rev, crowned shields cruciform, pre-union rose at centre, emblem tipped sceptres in angles, reads MAG BR FRA ET HIB REG, date either side of top crown, edge milled, 8.33g, (S.3562; MCE.209; Schneider II, 525; Douglas-Morris 4 this coin). A well centred strike on a full and broad flan, rich golden toning permeating all of the coin, from the inner fields to outer legends. Portrait well struck up, some light flecking. Reverse, prooflike especially in the fields and recesses, with the charming pre union rose at centre, later replaced by the garter star (for post union issues). Extremely fine, very rare, much eye appeal.
Ex. Captain K. J Douglas-Morris, ‘The Distinguished collection of English Gold Coins, 1700-1900’ Sotheby, 26 November 1974, lot 4.
Previously encapsulated and graded as MS 60, with the official NGC ticket and reference.
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. Hailing from one of the strongest provenances in the last fifty years in Douglas Morris, a superb example.
