Is This The Rare Gratta Error Variety?

[dave-lowe]

This Charles II Half Crown certainly looks like the rare variety of this date, which reads GRATTA in error. Because it is so worn, it's difficult to be precise. I have looked under a glass, and I can see what looks like the tops of two T's, but is it a "trick of the light" which makes it appear so?

Look at both A's and you can see a difference in size to the horizontal bar. I have looked at an angle, and there is a definite bulge where the serif of the "T's" are.

I have been collecting over 30 years, and would welcome any comments.

[Rob]

It looks like a T, but the grade isn't the best. Attached is what Spink had to say about Adams 346.

I think the jury is out until a good well struck example is available.

Edited March 12, 2014 by Rob

[dave-lowe]

Very interesting article. Mine certainly does look like the first coin pictured, and it is dated 1679 (couldn't post a picture of the Reverse); the uprights of the letters before the last A look the same as mine. I know it's not in very good condition, but I bought it with THREE other Charles II coins for less than £60; the other two coins are pierced, but it's still incredible value. There is a Sixpence 1678 over 7 and a Twopence of 1679 [the figure before the 9 is flat, but I think it is a 7].

[Peckris]

It certainly looks like a T - and the second "T" (i.e. the "I") is much clearer than the first.