Another new UK merchant countermark has been discovered. Not only is the countermark worthy of research but the counterfeit host too.
Countermarked Coins
A Punch for the Octagonal Countermark of 1804 – Gary Oddie
Several years ago, the author acquired an octagonal punch suspected to have been used by counterfeiters to create countermarked dollars similar to the official Bank of England issues of 1804. The punch was tested on soft metals and a genuine dollar. Close inspection revealed a very small, and previously un-noticed, mark in the folds of the drapery. This mark is not present on the Maundy penny bust. Inspection of several genuine octagonal countermarked dollars reveals this mark to be present and suggests that this is an official punch.
Possibly a New Merchant Countermark? – An Amazing Find – Tom Ward and Eric C. Hodge
UK merchant countermarked dollars are generally quite rare.When a new issuer is discovered this is an event for celebration.However in this case there is an amazing twist at the end of this tale, or is it tail?
Discovery of Nine Examples of UK Merchant Countermarked Dollars from an Old Collection Held in the National Archaeological Museum, Naples, Italy – Eric C. Hodge
In most series in numismatics, provenance is of vital importance. The series of UK merchant countermarked dollars is no different. So when early records, and photographs to support them, are found, then these can prove to be an invaluable resource for future research. This note is a record of such a find.
Update to ‘A Poor Host Leaves a Bad Impression’ – Eric C. Hodge
This record is to dot an “i” or cross a “t” to ensure a fully correct record of a previous article in The British Numismatic Journal, now that photographic proof has been received. Or click here to read the original BNJ paper.
Letter Regarding the Countermarking of the Base Testoons of Edward VI at Bedford – 16th October 1560 – Gary Oddie
This note presents a previously un-noticed letter sent to the Mayor and Burgesses of Bedford, dated 16th October 1560, regarding the countermarking of the base testoons of Edward VI with a portcullis or greyhound. Following a brief introduction to the state of the coinage and the countermarking campaign around the country, the full document is reproduced, along with a transcription. The document confirms that the town of Bedford received just one each of the portcullis and greyhound punches. The Bedford document is very similar to one known for the city of Wells, but has a missing sentence when compared to a draft dated 10th October 1560 in The National Archives.
Where Have all the Four Reales Gone?
My numismatic interests lie in cut and countermarked silver coins. In the main these were Spanish American 8 reales. Very few, if any, 4 reales were used in this manner and I have always wondered why. This note is to seek further ideas and advice.
BNS Research Blog 