Virginia Shilling Tribute – 2 oz Silver Round

Intaglio Mint’s Virginia Shilling tribute revisits an intriguing rarity of colonial American numismatics. A portrait of George III and an elaborate crowned shield bring the character of the 1774 silver issue to a modern round containing 2 troy ounces of .999 fine silver. The compact 39mm format and approximately 6mm thickness give the design a substantial presence, with a Brilliant Uncirculated finish emphasizing its fine details.

A Colonial Coin with an Uncertain Purpose

The original Virginia silver piece is traditionally called a “shilling,” although it bears no denomination. Its precise intended role remains uncertain, and numismatic references discuss it as a pattern or trial rather than an ordinary circulating issue. That unanswered question is part of its appeal: it preserves a possible direction for colonial coinage that never became commonplace.

The design also connects two different strands of British coinage. The original obverse used the portrait die found on George III gold guineas dated from 1774, while its reverse followed the style of Virginia’s copper halfpence. Only a handful of the silver originals survive, including museum-held examples. This modern tribute offers an opportunity to appreciate that seldom-seen composition at a larger, easily studied scale.

Obverse Design

George III faces right with long, flowing hair and a laurel wreath. The surrounding inscription reads “GEORGIVS III DEI GRATIA.” Open fields frame the portrait, allowing the curls, wreath and profile to remain the focus of the design.

Reverse Design

An ornate crowned shield is divided into heraldic quarters featuring lions, fleurs-de-lis and a harp. “VIRGINIA” is arranged around the outer field, and the date 1774 is divided above the shield. A silver-weight and purity inscription crosses the center, identifying the modern tribute’s precious-metal content within the historic composition.

Specifications

• Silver weight: 2 troy ounces
• Purity: .999 fine silver
• Diameter: 39mm
• Thickness: approximately 6mm
• Edge: Reeded
• Finish: Brilliant Uncirculated

Part of Intaglio Mint’s Colonial Tribute series, this silver round combines a little-known chapter of coinage history with a richly detailed royal design. Explore more designs in our silver round collection.