King George II Lima Halfcrown 1745-1746

George II “Lima” Halfcrown (1745–1746)

The George II Lima Halfcrown is one of the most historically significant British silver coins of the 18th century. Struck during the later years of George II’s reign (1727–1760), these coins are instantly recognisable by the word “LIMA” in the obverse legend — a mark identifying that the silver used was captured from the Spanish during the War of the Austrian Succession.

Historical Background

The term “Lima” refers to Lima, Peru, then a major Spanish colonial minting centre. In 1745, British naval forces under Admiral George Anson captured a Spanish treasure fleet carrying silver mined and minted in Lima. To commemorate this victory and to highlight the use of captured bullion, the Royal Mint struck a limited number of coins—shillings, halfcrowns, and crowns—bearing the word “LIMA” as a patriotic distinction.

The Lima issues are prized today for their direct connection to British naval history and 18th-century geopolitics.

Key Specifications

• Monarch: George II

• Reign: 1727–1760

• Issuing Years: Primarily 1745 and 1746 for Lima-marked pieces

• Denomination: Halfcrown (2 shillings and 6 pence)

• Metal: Sterling silver (.925 fine)

• Weight: Approx. 14.14 grams

• Diameter: Approx. 32 mm

• Mint: Tower Mint, London

• Coin condition-Very Fine

Design Details

Obverse:

• Features the laureate, older bust of George II facing left.

• The inscription includes “LIMA” within the legend:
  “GEORGIVS II DEI GRATIA LIMA”
  Signifying that the coin was struck from captured Peruvian silver.

Reverse:

• Displays the cruciform shields of England, Scotland, Ireland, and France arranged around the central Garter Star.

• The legend reads:
  “MAG BR FRA ET HIB REX”
  (“King of Great Britain, France, and Ireland”)

• Date positioned above.

Collecting Notes

• Lima Halfcrowns are highly sought after for their historical story and relative scarcity compared with regular issues.

• Condition heavily affects value, particularly as many examples show circulation wear.

• Well-struck examples with clear legends and shield detail are especially collectible.

• The Lima mark makes these coins highly recognisable and desirable among both history enthusiasts and numismatists.

Significance

The George II Lima series stands as one of the most distinctive and celebrated issues of British milled coinage—representing not only the wealth of an empire but also a symbolic triumph at sea.