Queen Victoria One Penny Coin Value Guide

The 1897 Queen Victoria One Penny is a significant piece of late Victorian numismatic history, minted just four years before the end of her record-breaking reign. This bronze coin features the 'Veiled Head' or 'Old Head' portrait, representing the final evolution of Victoria's image on British currency.

What Is Queen Victoria One Penny Coin Worth?

The typical price range for Queen Victoria One Penny Coin is $10 - $20 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition and grade, particularly the level of detail remaining on Britannia's shield and Victoria's veil.
• Presence of original mint luster, which significantly increases the value above the $10-$20 range.
• Surface damage such as deep scratches, corrosion, or signs of aggressive cleaning.
• The clarity of the 1897 date and the sharpness of the strike on the reverse lighthouse and ship details.

How to Identify Queen Victoria One Penny Coin?

• Verify the obverse features the 'Veiled Head' portrait of Queen Victoria designed by Thomas Brock.
• Confirm the reverse displays Britannia seated with a trident and shield, with the date 1897 in the exergue.
• Check for the bronze composition which replaced the heavier copper used in earlier Victorian issues.
• Look for the legend 'VICTORIA DEI GRA BRITT REGINA FID DEF IND IMP' around the coin's edge.

History of Queen Victoria One Penny Coin

British penny coins featuring Queen Victoria were minted from 1837 to 1901. The 'bun head' or 'veiled head' design was introduced in 1860, replacing the earlier 'young head' portrait. Britannia, the female personification of Great Britain, has been a consistent figure on British coinage for centuries, symbolizing naval power and national identity. The 1897 penny is part of the later Victorian era coinage, just a few years before the Queen's death, making it a significant piece of British numismatic history.