The oldest coin we possess is a 2d (two pence) from 1797. It is particulary interesting because of the changes that were incorporated in it by the Mint. Until the C18 pennies were made of silver and there were relatively few in circulation. In 1797 the Soho Mint was charged with manufacturing 480 tonnes of copper pennies (1d) and 20 tonnes of copper twopences (2d). This they did using, for the first time ever, the steam power of Matthew Boulton.
The twopence coin weighed two ounces, and, with the penny, had the inscription punched into the rim rather than being raised - another first. The coins were designed by Conrad Kuchler. The obverse shows a laureated, right facing bust of George III with the inscription, "Georgius III D G Rex". The reverse has Britannia sitting on a rock (inscribed SOHO) facing left holding an olive branch and a trident. There is a shield and a distant ship. This is the first depiction of Britannia ruling the waves. Round the rim is the word Britannia and the date, 1797.
photo © T. Boughen Camera: Olympus OMD E-M10
