Val M. writes: I have a Britain coin and was wondering what it is. On the front it says “carolvs.a. carolo” and a woman facing left w/ a ribbon hanging. The back says says “britannia 1679” w/ a woman I think holding something in the air. It’s a little worn. I think it’s copper or bronze. Thanks for any info.
You have a 1679 Great Britain farthing (4 farthings= 1 penny). The obverse shows a bust King Charles II facing left, the legend around, CAROLVS.A CAROLO. The reverse shows “Britannia” seated on a rock, dressed in a gown, the shield of Great Britain at her left, she is holding a spear in her left hand and an olive branch in her right, BRITANNIA is around and the date is below.
This is a scarce issue and was the last farthing issued under Charles II. There were no halfpennies or pennies struck in this year. Value depends on grade (condition). Approximate range: US $10 – $500+
