British Godless Florin, 1849
Also known as: Godless Florin
Well documentedSupported by multiple reputable specialist catalogues or publications.
Period
1849
Issuing entity
United KingdomSilver florin of 1849, the first British florin, so called because the customary DEI GRATIA was omitted from the obverse legend.
Historical context
The florin was introduced as an early step towards a decimal currency, representing one tenth of a pound. The omission of the religious formula attracted public criticism and the legend was restored on later issues.
Physical characteristics
- Metal
- Silver alloy
- Denomination
- One florin (two shillings)
Design
- Obverse
- Crowned bust of Queen Victoria
- Reverse
- Cruciform shields
Identification
- Key feature
- Absence of DEI GRATIA in the obverse legend
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Weight and diameter to be transcribed from a verified catalogue
- Obverse legend variants to be recorded with citations