1914 sixpence

1914 Sixpence

X14L.2A
Mint: London
Mint mark: none
Mintage: 1,800,000

John Dean¹ reported and illustrated two varieties of the 1914 sixpence. The first is described as "London, no mintmark, 4 of date close to right arrow" and the second as "... 4 of date further from right arrow." From Dean's photographs it is apparent that there are also differences in the alignment and orientation of the final two digits. Robert Clarke² lists the "4 of date closer to arrow" variety. Dion Skinner⁴ illustrates a completely different variety wherein the second 1 of the date has an indented base but does not mention the variations described by Dean and Clarke.

My own investigations indicate that the 1914 sixpence has a much more complex set of varieties than suggested by previous catalogue compilers. I suspect that working dies were made from a 19__ partial-date puncheon with both the 1 and the 4 being added by hand. I can't be absolutely sure because I've had to work with very low-grade coins. Of the 18 specimens in my collection, only four rank VG or better.

Anyway, I have identified at least six varieties of the 1914 sixpence excluding the "indented 1" variety illustrated by Skinner (which I have not seen). I strongly suspect that there are more.

Reverse of 1914 sixpence

X14L.2A

One of the several varieties of the 1914 sixpence.

Date varieties of the 1914 sixpence

	X14L.2A.1 Second 1 leans to the right and is positioned over the gap between denticles 69 and 70. The 4 is quite far from the right arrow.
	X14L.2A.2 Almost the same as the previous variety. Second 1 leans noticeably to the right. 4 is quite upright and a tiny bit closer to the right arrow.
	X14L.2A.3 Second 1 is upright and is aligned directly over rim denticle 69. The 4 is almost upright and is aligned directly over rim denticle 65.
	X14L.2A.4 Second 1 is upright and aligned slightly to the left of rim denticle 69. The 4 leans a little to the left, is slighly closer to the right arrow and is aligned directly over rim denticle 65.
	X14L.2A.5 The 4 is even closer to the right arrow and more upright than in previous variety.
	X14L.2A.6 4 is very close to right arrow and is aligned slightly to the right of denticle 65.

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