

1790 George III Gold 'Spade' Half-Guinea
Graded by NGC as MS62
Price: £2,615.00
Product code: HIS1790HG
- An original half-guinea from the reign of George III
- The obverse features the fifth laureate head of King George III
- The reverse displays a distinctive crowned quartered spade-shaped shield of arms
- Independently graded by NGC as MS62
- Certified authenticity from The Royal Mint
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The 1790 George III gold Half-Guinea is a notable coin from the "Spade Guinea" series, featuring the fifth laureate head of King George III on the obverse, facing right. The obverse inscription reads "GEORGIVS III DEI GRATIA," meaning "George III by the Grace of God".
The reverse displays a distinctive crowned quartered spade-shaped shield of arms, with the date 1790 at the bottom. The reverse legend, written in abbreviated Latin, reads "M.B.F.ET.H. REX. F.D.B. ET.L.D.S.R.I.A.T ET.E." When fully expanded, this translates to "King of Great Britain, France and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, Duke of Brunswick and Luneberg, High Treasurer and Elector of the Holy Roman Empire".
This particular Half-Guinea has been graded by NGC as MS62, indicating a high state of preservation with minimal wear. The coin weighs 4.20 grams and is composed of 22-carat gold (0.9167 fineness). It has a diameter of approximately 20mm.
The 1790 mintage was significant, with the total gold output for that year amounting to £2,660,522, making it the fifth-highest production year for the spade-type reverse guineas. This Half-Guinea is considered a rare date, adding to its numismatic appeal.
The coin shows signs of toning and some light hairlines, which is consistent with its age and circulation. Despite these minor imperfections, its MS62 grade indicates that it retains much of its original mint lustre and has strong eye appeal.
NGC Certification 2130745-005
Specification
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Denomination | Guinea |
Alloy | 22 Carat Gold |
Weight | 4.20 g |
Diameter | 20.00mm |
Reverse Designer | Lewis Pingo |
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Obverse Designer | Lewis Pingo |
Quality | Circulating |
Year | 1790 |
Pure Metal Type | Gold |