Description
George III (1760-1820) Pattern Shilling, 1798, by John Milton (1759-1805). Laureate head right, lowest hair tie extending down the obverse field, date below. Legend commences at lower left of bust GEORGIVS III DEI GRATIA REX. Rev, large crowned shield divided into six sections incorporating Hanoverian Arms into the overall heraldry, legend reads M.B.F.E.T.H.R.EX.F.D.B.ET.L.D.S.R.I.A.T.ET.E, edge plain (ESC.1243 R5; Bull.2176).
Only five to ten examples known, excessively rare. This piece appears to be the finest known example, as struck.
Encapsulated and graded by PCGS as Proof 65.
Several Pattern and Proof Shillings were issued in George III’s extensive reign. 1764,1775 and 1778 saw the Yeo or Tanner pieces, 1787 plain edge proofs, some with thick flans (with and without the hearts in Hanoverian shield), Droz issued a proof with a royal cypher on reverse in 1787 and this coin in 1798 by Milton. Arguably it is this 1798 Pattern that has the aesthetic edge on the others, only comparable to the Yeo or Tanner in terms of it’s artistry and execution. (The Dorrien & Magens Shilling of the same date, despite also being extremely rare and sought after, is not considered a pattern or a proof).
