Queen Anne Sixpence 1702 - 1714

The Queen Anne Sixpence (1702–1714) is a British silver coin minted during the reign of Queen Anne (1702–1714). These coins are highly collectible, with well-preserved examples in Very Fine (VF) condition being particularly sought after.

Design and Features

• Obverse:

  • Features the bust of Queen Anne, facing left.
  • Designed by John Croker, the bust is draped and sometimes laureate in later issues.
  • The inscription reads:
    "ANNA DEI GRATIA" (Anne, by the Grace of God).

• Reverse:

  • Features four crowned shields arranged in a cross, representing:
    • England (three lions passant)
    • Scotland (lion rampant)
    • Ireland (harp)
    • France (fleur-de-lis, reflecting the English claim to the French throne)
  • A central Garter star or cross may be present in some variations.
  • The inscription reads:
    "MAG BR FRA ET HIB REG" (Queen of Great Britain, France, and Ireland), followed by the date.

• Composition: 92.5% silver (Sterling silver)

• Weight: 3.0 grams

• Diameter: 21 mm

• Edge: Milled (reeded)

• Varieties:

  • Some sixpences have a plumes or roses mintmark, indicating coins struck from silver sourced from Wales.
  • Early issues (1703) include the Vigo mark, denoting silver captured from Spanish treasure ships off Vigo Bay.

Condition – Very Fine (VF) Characteristics

A Very Fine (VF) graded Queen Anne sixpence typically exhibits:

• Moderate wear on high points such as Queen Anne’s hair and facial details.
• Clear and readable inscriptions with only slight flattening.
• Reverse shields and crowns remain well-defined, with only minor loss of detail.
• Original luster may be partially visible, though some light toning or surface marks are expected.

Historical Significance

• Queen Anne was the last monarch of the Stuart dynasty, and her reign saw the 1707 Act of Union, officially merging England and Scotland into Great Britain.
• Sixpences were widely circulated and used in everyday transactions, making well-preserved examples rarer today.
• The 1703 VIGO sixpence is especially valuable, as it was struck from Spanish silver captured during the War of Spanish Succession.

Collectibility and Value

A Very Fine (VF) Queen Anne Sixpence is a desirable coin due to its age, silver content, and historical significance. Prices can range from £200 to £800+, depending on factors such as:

• Year and variety (e.g., Vigo-marked coins are more valuable)
• Minting errors or rare dies
• Presence of original luster or toning