1771-feilpreg

The skilling that kept its date

Copper skilling coins were introduced in Denmark-Norway in 1771 under Christian VII. The 1 skilling type kept the date 1771 for many years after the year itself: the Danish reference site Danmarks Mønter gives production from 1771 to 1786, at Copenhagen, Altona and Kongsberg, and the Kongsberg issue was struck from 1783. Tens of millions were made, so the ordinary coin is common.

What is the SKILLIING error?

The normal reverse reads SKILLING DANSKE K M 1771. On the coins in this category the word is spelled with a double I, SKILLIING, and the letters read M K. The variant is listed as Hede 37E. F. Pedersen (1991) dates at least one of the error coins here to Copenhagen in 1783. Other known spelling errors on the same type include DANKSE, DANAKE and DNASKE.

What do collectors look for?

• A readable error: the misspelling must be clearly visible. Most specimens are worn, often in Good to Very Good condition.
• Reference: attribution to Hede or Pedersen makes it possible to compare dies.
• Beware of copies: modern fakes of the 1771 skilling exist. They are typically larger, look like bronze and have a raised rim.

See also Christian VII and Denmark.