Pattern Coin 1846

Vandaleak_Collection

Just noted this and wondered what you guys thought about it?

It’s a British coin. I am sharing for views and I hope this is ok. Interesting story behind the coin.

https://auctions.thecoincabinet.com/lots/view/4-I8PXJJ/1846-copper-cent-pattern-proof-pcgs-pr62-bn

1846 Copper Cent Pattern Proof PCGS PR62 BN

Description: UNITED KINGDOM. Victoria, 1837-1901. Copper Cent, 1846. Birmingham (Smith). Pattern Proof.

This is an extremely rare Pattern which signified the first attempt in Great Britain to introduce a decimal currency system. Birmingham was the start of this movement and saw the earliest patterns for a British decimal coinage, struck in the 1840s by Smith for Marrian and Gausby. The original inscription, "SMITH'S DECIMAL CURRENCY" infringed upon the Royal Mint's right of producing the coinage. Consequently, the patterns from 1846 were amended to read "SMITH ON DECIMAL CURRENCY". A total of five denominations were created: 10, 5, 2, and 1 cent pieces, along with a 1 centum denomination. The idea was that 1,000 cents would be equivalent to £1. Although straightforward in theory, this system was not implemented until 1971, exactly 125 years later, when Britain officially went decimal.
Young head of Queen Victoria facing left within a raised narrow rim with beading. / Legend around, 1 CENT in centre; SMITH ON DECIMAL CURRENCY. Original striking by Marrion and Gausby. Edge plain.

Reference: Fr.823; Peck 2086
Rarity: R17 in Freeman.