An adorable tiny antique Victorian 1882 "Maundy Money" silver penny pendant necklace.
Maundy money are specially minted silver coins that are given annually as symbolic arms to elderly poor people by the reigning British monarch, this coin was given by Queen Victoria in 1882. The coins are distributed in sets of 4 at a special church service to commemorate Jesus washing the feet of the Apostles at the Last Supper. During this service, the Queen (or King) distributes the Maundy Money gifts according to the number of years she has lived: so Victoria would have distributed sets of 4 silver coins to 63 men and 63 women in 1882. This lovely custom dates back to the 7th century, it is still held every year and the antique coins are very collectible.
The coin is very, very small and a built in bale has been added at the top, it suspends from an Italian sterling silver trace chain with flat cut links that add a lovely sparkle.
A wonderful piece steeped in history and it is in beautiful condition. Typically Maundy money silver coins are kept as keepsakes and are not used as coinage. A perfect piece for adding a little unusual charm to your layering or a lovely antique gift for that special someone in your life.
MATERIALS: sterling silver throughout
MEASUREMENTS: coin pendant 1/2" (1.3cm) diameter, the chain measures 16" (41cm)
HALLMARKS: coin none, chain '925' and 'AR' for Italy
WEIGHT: 2.6 grams total
DATE: Victorian, dated 1882
CONDITION: in excellent condition, there are some very faint surface scratches on the coin that can only really be seen on the close-up photos.
At Mercy Madge we offer distinctive and unique antique and vintage jewellery. Each piece is carefully hand selected by us, for you. We rarely come across two identical old treasures, once they are gone, they are truly gone!
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- FREE DELIVERY on all orders worldwide. All orders are despatched next business day and sent with full tracking.
- RETURNS, you can return your item for a refund for any reason. Just get in touch within 3 days of receiving your order if you wish to do so.
- Unless otherwise stated any antique boxes in our photos are for display only and are not included in purchase. However, do rest assured all items will arrive gift wrapped in a custom Mercy Madge jewellery presentation box.
- Our photographs are taken with a magnified macro lens to show you every tiny detail, flaws are exaggerated and aren't as noticeable to the naked eye, similarly shadows caused by studio lighting can give rise to discoloured areas that don't exist.
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Materials: Sterling Silver.