Description:
English copper penny, second issue, 1797
Diameter 35mm
The obverse features the draped and laureate bust of George III facing right. The inscription reads 'GEORGIUS III.D:G.REX', Latin, abbreviated meaning 'George III By the Grace of God, King'. The reverse is worn but features Britannia seated and facing left. By her side is a shield with the Union Flag and in her right hand she holds an olive branch. Britannia is seated on rocks by the sea and carries Poseidon's trident in her left hand. Beneath the shield, illegible on this example, is the Soho mintmark. This coin is of the 'Cartwheel' coinage, so called because of its raised rim.