The 1797 Great Britain Cartwheel Two Pence is one of the most distinctive British copper coins of the reign of King George III. Produced at the Soho Mint in Birmingham, this substantial coin was part of a landmark issue designed to provide dependable copper coinage with a consistent weight and intrinsic metal value.
Its impressive size, thick flan, and characteristic raised rim give the coin its popular name, “Cartwheel.” The issue represents an important development in British coin production during the Industrial Revolution, combining innovative minting technology with a practical approach to circulating copper currency.
Obverse
Features the laureate portrait of King George III facing right, with the surrounding Latin inscription identifying the monarch. The detailed portrait and lettering reflect the coinage style of late 18th-century Britain.
Reverse
Displays Britannia seated beside a shield, holding a trident and olive branch, with a ship visible in the background. The denomination and date appear within the design, accompanied by the traditional British personification of Britannia.
Coin Details
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Country: Great Britain
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Monarch: King George III
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Denomination: Two Pence
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Year: 1797
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Mint: Soho Mint, Birmingham
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Material: Copper
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Weight: 56.7 g
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Design Type: Cartwheel
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Reverse Motif: Britannia
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Age: Approximately 229 years old in 2026
Historical Background
The 1797 Cartwheel copper coinage was produced under the direction of Matthew Boulton at the Soho Mint. Its production employed advanced minting machinery, allowing coins to be struck with greater consistency than many earlier copper issues.
The Two Pence was issued alongside the famous Cartwheel Penny. Both denominations featured broad raised rims and substantial weights, helping distinguish them from lightweight and frequently underweight copper tokens circulating at the time.
Numismatic Significance
The 1797 Cartwheel Two Pence is an important example of Britain’s transition toward more standardised, machine-produced coinage. Its size, distinctive construction, and association with the pioneering Soho Mint make it a significant type in the history of British monetary technology.
Collector’s Appeal
An excellent historical type for collectors of British copper coinage, King George III coins, Industrial Revolution-era minting, and classic world coins. Its imposing dimensions and instantly recognisable Cartwheel design make it a striking addition to a historical coin collection.
