The 1844 Victoria Half Farthing – Proof/BU Crown & Floral reverse type is a scarce early‑Victorian copper issue struck with a distinctive presentation‑style reverse. Unlike the standard circulation half farthing featuring Britannia seated, this variety displays a central crown positioned above the denomination and date, flanked by the national floral symbols of the United Kingdom — the rose (England), thistle (Scotland), and shamrock (Ireland).

This reverse is associated with proofs, specimens, and high‑grade BU strikes, produced for collectors, dignitaries, and special distributions rather than general circulation. These pieces are highly sought after for their elegant layout and rarity.

The obverse features the refined Young Head portrait of Queen Victoria, engraved by William Wyon. Legend: VICTORIA DEI GRATIA The date does not appear on the obverse (correct for this type).

The reverse displays:

• A central crown
• Positioned above the denomination HALF FARTHING
• The date 1844 below
• Flanked by the rose, thistle and shamrock, representing the United Kingdom
• Clean, open prooflike fields typical of specimen copper

Specifications

• Country: United Kingdom
• Year: 1844
• Denomination: Half Farthing
• Metal: Copper
• Weight: 2.4g
• Diameter: 18mm
• Edge: Plain
• Obverse: Queen Victoria, Young Head (Wyon)
• Reverse: Crown over HALF FARTHING; date 1844; rose, thistle & shamrock
• Classification: Victorian copper; proof/BU presentation type
• Catalogue References: Spink 3952 (proof type); KM 486 variant

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