Ancient, British and World Coins and Banknotes, to include the Professor Jeffrey P Mass Collection of English Short Cross Coins, 1180-1247 (Part II) and British Medals from the James Spencer Collection (Part III)

George V (1910-1936), Proof Crown, 1935, in gold, by B. MacKennal and P. Metcalf, head left with artist’s initials on truncation, rev. St. George riding over dragon in Art Deco style, artist’s initials below right, edge lettering in relief, xxv, 48.18g/12h (WR 424; L & S 47; ESC 379; S 4050). Some light surface marks, otherwise brilliant and as struck, in red case of issue; sold with the original recipient’s correspondence from Robert A. Johnson, Deputy Master and Comptroller of the Royal Mint (£10,000-15,000)

Illustrated on the front cover. Thirty pieces are known to have been struck, five being consigned to museums and the remaining 25 balloted for in accordance with the practice of the time. Johnson’s signed mimeographed letter dated 15 May 1935, stating that 1,329 applications had been received, notifying the applicant of his success and covering the despatch of the coin, is included in the lot, together with a letter dated 23 May 1935, bearing the rubber stamped signature of Robert Johnson, offering his congratulations and covering the attachment of a list of the names of all the successful applicants. A draft reply is pencilled on the back of this letter and reads “I am in receipt of your list for which I am much obliged many thanks. I consider myself being most fortunate in possessing one of these beautifully minted crowns. Apparently the list contains 24 names only unless I presume Messrs Spinks gained two coins for their nominees can you give me do I read this correctly ever yours apologising”