1922/1 Overdate Threepence

Several rarities stand out across the Australian series, and the 1922/1 overdate threepence is one of the most notable. Rarer than the famed 1930 penny, and harder to obtain in high condition (due to its small size), the 1922/1 overdate is an underrated coin in any grade. Whilst we have had the pleasure of offering dozens of examples to our collectors over the years, never have we handled a piece as exceptional as the present coin. And it is a piece, not just a coin or an example. In hand, it instantly stands out: Of all the overdate threepences we’ve handled or seen, this coin shows the least wear and retains the most detail. Indeed, the feathers of the emu are clear and untouched, “Advance Australia” is fully struck, while importantly the overdate itself is as unmissable as ever we have seen it on this issue. Turning the coin over to the obverse, one notices the whirl of cartwheel lustre about the devices on both sides—something we have never seen on any other 1922/1 overdate threepence. The obverse itself is practically untouched, with only slight weakness on the second pair of pearls in the band—a forgivable imperfection on such a diminutive coin. Hints of tone kiss the protected fields, signalling originality. This coin is without comparison, and in my view superior to the coin from the Fenton collection. According to Paul Hannaford of International Auction Galleries, who described the coin as “clearly the finest known” (a sentiment we share), the coin was found in an old English collection prior to 2010. After being sold, the coin passed through a prominent Melbourne dealer’s stock before entering the portfolio of a Queensland technology entrepreneur. On the entrepreneur’s behalf, we certified the coin with PCGS, where it was awarded the equal-finest grade of AU58. We offer this extraordinary piece to the advanced connoisseur, sophisticated numismatic investor, Commonwealth coin enthusiast, or curator of unique Australian rarities. If that is you, call us to discuss.