Great Britain 1/2, 1, 2, and 5 Guineas 1714 to 1726

Another great coin, Ruthie. This is an old British Guinea that carries plenty of value from (1) its gold content and (2) its numismatic (coin collector) appeal. The Guineas of George I have the same inscriptions, but slightly modified busts for different years. Coins showing a small elephant were struck from gold mined in Guinea, now Ghana, in Africa.

As always, coins in well preserved condition are worth more than coins with lots of wear, and coins that have scratches, spots, cleanings, and other damage are worth far less than undamaged coins.

NEVER CLEAN A COIN. CLEANING RUINS VALUE.

To figure value, first compute the base value due to gold content then add numismatic (collector) premium. Look up the current value of gold on web sites such as kitco.com and multiply by the gold content below to figure the base value. Then add numismatic premium. Since these coins are so old and so desirable, the numismatic premium is substantial

1/2 GUINEA, 20 mm diameter, 0.123 troy ounces gold
worn: add $200 numismatic premium
average circulated: add $800
well preserved: add $2000
1/2 guineas dated 1726 with a small elephant-and-castle symbol under George's bust catalog at $5000 average circulated, $10000+ well preserved

1 GUINEA, 25 mm diameter, 0.246 troy ounces gold
worn: add $250 numismatic premium
average circulated: add $1000
well preserved: add $3000
1 guineas dated 1714 catalog at $3500 average circulated, $6000 well preserved

2 GUINEAS, 30 mm diameter, 0.492 troy ounces gold
worn: add $500 numismatic premium
average circulated: add $2000
well preserved: add $6000

5 GUINEAS, 38 mm diameter, 1.231 troy ounces gold
worn: add $1500 numismatic premium
average circulated: add $5000
well preserved: add $16000

Many thanks (again) to Tony Clayton for use of his coin picture.

Also, be sure to read our Important Terminology page to understand what 'catalog value' means. Remember also that the modern coin market is flooded with counterfeits. Deal only with reputable people.
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