Among antique coins, British coins are particularly popular and have seen significant price increases. The British royal tradition is well-established, and coins feature the portraits of reigning monarchs, allowing collectors to build a collection that traces the royal lineage. This systematic approach makes collecting British coins particularly appealing.

One of the most notable aspects of British coins is the coin sets. These sets, which include both gold and silver coins issued at the same time, allow collectors to acquire a complete collection in one go. Despite the limited availability of such sets, they are highly sought after by collectors, driving up their prices.

In this article, we’ll introduce the '1893 Victoria Old Head Proof Set,' issued in 1893. We'll also delve into the character and achievements of Queen Victoria to deepen your understanding of British coins.

Basic Information on the 1893 Victoria Old Head Gold and Silver Proof Set

Let's go over the basic information about the Old Head Victoria Proof Set:

• Country: United Kingdom
• Year of Issue: 1893-1900 (the set being introduced was issued in 1893)
• Mintage: 773 sets
• Material: Gold and silver
• Obverse Design: Portrait of Queen Victoria (Old Head)

About the Portrait of Queen Victoria

There are many coins featuring the portrait of Queen Victoria, and the type introduced here is known as the Old Head. This portrait shows Queen Victoria from the chest up, in her later years, which is why it’s called the Old Head. It’s also referred to as the Old Bust or the Veil Head, due to the veil she wears. (Image: Right)

Other well-known portraits include the Young Head (Image: Left) and the Jubilee Head (Image: Center). The Young Head shows Victoria in her youth, while the Jubilee Head features her wearing a crown.

Interestingly, the Jubilee Head coins were first issued in 1887, but they were not well received in the UK. As a result, the Old Head coins were introduced just six years later in 1893.

In contrast to the more flamboyant Jubilee Head coins of 1887, the 1893 Old Head coins have a subdued design. However, they exude dignity and gravitas appropriate for Victoria’s age, reminiscent of the mother of the British Empire.

The Rarity of the Mintage

Only 773 sets of the Victoria Old Head Proof Set were issued. These sets are rarely offered at auctions, and the hammer price, including fees, often exceeds $70,000.

While it’s possible to find individual coins from these sets for sale, assembling a complete set from individual purchases is extremely challenging. This scarcity makes the competition for complete sets intense, often driving up the prices.

It is also extremely rare to find a set with its original case from the time of issuance. Collectors worldwide covet these cases because they are typically unavailable when coins are purchased individually. The better the condition of the coins and the case, the higher their rarity and value.

Given the limited mintage, encountering a high grade coin with its original case is a unique opportunity—one worth seizing, regardless of the cost.

In the next installment, we’ll explore more about Queen Victoria.

May your antique coin journey bring you good fortune!