Lot 318: UK 1797 George III Cartwheel Twopence
A UK 1797 copper twopence, known as a ‘Cartwheel’ due to its characteristic thick, raised rim and large diameter. The obverse features a laurel-wreathed portrait of George III facing right, surrounded by the incised legend GEORGIUS III • D : G • REX. on the broad rim. The reverse depicts a seated figure of Britannia facing left, holding an olive branch and a trident, with a shield featuring the Union Jack. A small ship is visible in the distance to the lower left. The incised inscriptions on the reverse rim read BRITANNIA. and the date 1797. The coin was produced at the Soho Mint using steam-powered machinery. No further maker’s marks or labels are visible on the piece.
Condition report:
The coin shows signs of significant circulation and environmental exposure. The obverse displays heavy wear to the high points of the portrait, particularly the laurel wreath and facial features, with numerous small nicks and contact marks across the field and rim. The reverse shows similar flattening to the figure of Britannia and the shield, with a dark brown patina and scattered surface scratches. The raised rim on both sides exhibits several minor bruises and indentations. No protective capsule or original packaging is supplied.
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