1865 F44 (Gouby J+g; Freeman 6+G) – slender 3 (R19)
This very rare variety has a very strange “slender” date numeral 3 – for many years, Freeman’s own specimen was thought to be the only existing example.
In the 2003 edition of his book “The Early British Bronze ‘Bun’ Pennies 1860 to 1865 and their Varieties”, John Jerrams’ census (up to September 2001) recorded just that one specimen.
Example 1
Ex-Freeman (held in a private collection)
Example 2
Sold by London Coins in June 2006 (for £22,230)
Example 3
Sold by Noonan’s in February 2024 (for £14,168)