Stepping back from the Victorian era, my collection takes us to the reign of Victoria’s uncle, William IV. Known as the “Sailor King” because of his youth spent in the Royal Navy, his reign was short, lasting only from 1830 to 1837.

Because his time on the throne was brief, filling the “William IV” slot in a Type Collection can be tricky. This 1835 Farthing serves as my representative example for the era.

The Historical Context: Old Copper

It is important to note a material difference here. The Victorian pennies I posted previously were made of Bronze. This coin, however, is made of Copper.

Copper is softer than bronze. As a result, these coins tended to wear down much faster in circulation, and they are highly susceptible to “edge knocks” (dents on the rim). Finding a copper coin from the 1830s that hasn’t been worn smooth or battered is a challenge.

The Coin: 1835 William IV Farthing

  • Denomination: Farthing (¼ Penny)
  • Monarch: William IV
  • Year: 1835
  • Metal: Copper
  • Designer: William Wyon (Obverse)
  • Reference: Spink 3848

The Design:
The obverse features the bare head of the King. The reverse shows the classic seated Britannia, but take note of the “exergue” (the space at the bottom under the line). It features the Rose, Thistle, and Shamrock intertwined—symbols of the United Kingdom that add a lovely level of detail to such a small coin.

Condition & Grading

Grading copper is different from grading bronze. We look for a consistent, dark chocolate colour (patina). Bright orange spots on a coin this old usually indicate harsh cleaning, which ruins the value.

The Assessment:

  • Colour: This example boasts a rich, even chocolate-brown tone. This is exactly what a collector wants to see on 19th-century copper.
  • Obverse: The portrait is bold. While there is wear on the high point of the cheek and the neck, the hair detail is surprisingly distinct. You can clearly see the waves of hair rather than just a smooth silhouette.
  • Reverse: Britannia is respectable. The plume on her helmet is visible (often the first thing to vanish), though the details on her shield have softened significantly.
  • Surface: There are some minor marks in the fields, but the rim is largely free of the heavy knocks that plague copper coins.

Grade: Very Fine (VF)
In the US grading market, this would likely range between VF 20 and VF 30.

The Verdict

The Farthing was the coin of the poor. It purchased small essentials—a candle, a bit of gin, or bread. Most of these were used until they were slick discs. To find one with the King’s hair detail still intact and a pleasing dark colour is a win for the collection. It is a solid, honest survivor from the 1830s.

Further Reading & Data: