Tammy A. writes: I have a large cent my grandmother gave me years ago. On the front it has a lady facing to the left. On her left it says VICTORIA D:C. On her right side it says BRITT:REC:F:D:. The back side of the coin has a man seated, in armor, facing right. To his left in the background is a tower and to his right in the background is a sailing ship. The date is underneath him is 1874 and has a mark that look like a 11 underneath the date, but it could be a letter. I think it is a H. I could not find this coin in any Canada or British coin guide and any help would be appreciated. What might it be worth?
You have a 1874H Great Britain Penny. It is a mystery why you couldn’t find this coin in a standard British Coin guide. The “H” indicates the Heaton Mint. The Coin shows the “mature bust” of Victoria facing left with the legend: VICTORIA D.G. BRITT. REG. F.D. (Victoria by the Grace of G-d Queen, Defender Of The Faith).
The reverse features Britannia seated on a rock holding a trident, the date below and ONE PENNY around.
Value depends on condition (grade) and type. In average circulated grade and type, which is often how this coin is found, the value is approximately $2. You can often find this coin in bargain boxes at dealer tables at local coin shows. Higher grade pieces or better types (there are 6) range in market value from:$5 – $700.
