The 1808 Third-GuineaAs gold prices rose towards the end of the 18th century Britain started to use banknotes instead of minting gold Guineas. There was still a shortage of lower value coins and so the gold third-guinea (worth 7 shillings) was used between 1797 and 1813 (all George III), although not minted every year.
This is the 1808 third-guinea and shows the second head of George III by Lewis Pingo.
The Reverse is a crown over the date and also engraved by Lewis Pingo. The legend is FIDEI DEFENSOR BRITANNIARUM REX meaning King of Britain and Defender of the Faith. This design was used 1804-1813.
The coin is 2.8g of 0.917 gold with a diameter of 17mm. The edge is reeded.
Prices start at around £150 in Fine condition.
Images used by permission of The Royal Mint
Mintage: Not known
Minted at The Royal Mint
Minted in 1808. See Coins and Events of 1808
Monarch/Ruler: George III (1760-1820)
Category: Guineas. See more Guineas coins
and see which Guineas coins have the lowest mintage.
Country of Origin: United Kingdom
List items on:
 | GEORGE III. 1803 HALF GUINEA. CHOICE CONDITION £ 1,500.00 |
 | 1798 Third Guinea George III Rare £ 995.00 |
 | GEORGE II. 1750 HALF GUINEA. KEY DATE £ 1,250.00 |
 | 1735 George II Guinea High Grade £ 3,000.00 |
List items on: