United Kingdom. 1844 Crown. Silver.
Queen Victoria (1837–1901), Young Head type.
Obverse: Bare head of Queen Victoria left, hair in braided bun; legend VICTORIA DEI GRATIA 1844.
Reverse: Crowned quartered shield of arms within laurel wreath; legend BRITANNIARUM REGINA FID DEF.
Certified and graded AU 55 by NGC.
A beautifully preserved example of the early Young Head Crown, showing strong detail throughout the portrait and reverse shield. The hair strands remain well defined, with only light friction on the highest points consistent with the grade. The reverse wreath and crown retain sharp inner detail.
Attractive original toning with a soft grey-silver patina and light cabinet friction. No major marks or distractions. A solid mid-grade example of this popular Victorian crown issue.
NGC has graded it AU 55, and from the images that looks accurate.
What supports AU55:
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Clear hair detail above ear and bun
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Strong wreath leaves on reverse
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Light even wear on cheek and highest shield points
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No flatness that would push it down to EF
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No remaining mint bloom that would justify AU58
This is a honest, textbook AU55.
