Rama IV 4 Baht (Tamlung) ND (1864) AU55 NGC, Bangkok mint, KM-YA12, Kann-pg, 332/333, Plate 139, LeMay-pg. 94, Plate XXII, 1, Krisadaolarn/Mihailovs-pg. 158, Plate F23. A classic rarity of the Thai series, struck to commemorate Rama IV's 60th birthday. While the obverse of the type displays the familiar crown motif commonplace in Thai coinage of the era, the reverse exhibits a more unique design, with the central inscription "Kingdom of Siam", surrounded by the Chinese inscription "Cheng Ming Tung Pao" (Negotiable Currency of Cheng Ming). The issue is commonly viewed as a presentation piece (and is noted as such on the Dr. Norman Jacobs collection envelope included with the lot), which was never released for official circulation. Clearly examples did see exchange to some extent, however, as this offering's condition reveals. That fact noted, the current example exhibits exceedingly little actual wear, with primarily just a scattering of light and non-distracting marks being all that preclude a finer designation, the eye appeal aided by a darkening of the outer ring that frames the lustrous central regions. For all practical purposes an exceptional rarity, one made only more desirable by an illustrious pedigree. Sold with collection envelope. From the Dr. Norman Jacobs Collection of Thai Coins

HID09801242017

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