Summary

1/3 Farthing, Issued by Malta, 1827
Minted by Royal Mint, London

From 1825 British Imperial coins were declared current in Malta. Until that time the local copper coins were Grani, when introduced the farthing was worth 3 grani. The 1/3 farthing was introduced in 1827 as a 1 grano piece. When originally requested by the Governor of Malta, the coin was to have the legend MALTA - ONE GRAIN, but British authorities preferred to used the design of the standard farthing and simply issue a smaller coin.

Obverse Description

Laureate head of the king facing left; around, GEORGIUS IV DEI GRATIA + 1827 +

Reverse Description

Britannia helmeted, seated on shield, facing right holding a trident in her left hand; around, BRITANNIAR: REX FID: DEF:; in exergue, a rose, thistle and shamrock united

Edge Description

Plain

Significance

According to Hocking 'The proclamation decscribing and giving currency to the new coins was dated 3rd November 1827.' Pridmore states 'Authorised by a Treasury Warrant dated 26th February, 1827.'

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