1880 Young Head Half Sovereign, Sydney Mint

A new decade dawned and in 1880, the Sydney Mint experienced a dramatic drop in half sovereign production, issuing only 80,000 coins.

That's a bonus for collectors.

The affect today is that in any condition, the 1880 Sydney Mint Half Sovereign is a rare coin. But it is excruciatingly rare in the Choice Uncirculated quality offered here.

This is a cameo-perfect example of the 1880 Half Sovereign. A stunning coin, visually impactful with superb detail, smooth fields and much original gold lustre.

In a recent conversation, Winsor re-affirmed that in the many years he was involved in the industry, he had not seen finer.

1880 - and what a year it was. Gold was discovered at Margaret River, Northern Territory by David Tennant, prospector, publican and store owner. The discovery inspired massive Chinese migration. Who hasn't eaten a 'Cherry Ripe' or a 'Freddo Frog'? Confectionery Company, Macpherson Robertson began making their prized treats in Fitzroy, Melbourne, in 1880.