Irish Penny Appraisal

Irish Pre-Decimal 1928 Half Penny (Leath Phingin) Coin

This is an Irish pre-decimal bronze coin, specifically a half penny (leath phinghin) dated 1928. The obverse side shown features the iconic Cláirseach, the Brian Boru harp, which serves as the national emblem of Ireland. To the left of the harp is the inscription 'éire' (Ireland) and to the right is the date '1928'. The coin is composed of a bronze alloy (typically 95.5% copper, 3% tin, and 1.5% zinc). Physically, the coin displays a deep, dark brownish-red patina, which is characteristic of circulated bronze coins that have aged over decades. The striking appears to be well-defined, though the surface shows signs of significant wear, including minor scratches, environmental toning, and softened edges on the harp's strings. There are visible 'bag marks' and small dings on the field of the coin consistent with its age and circulation history. This specific coin belongs to the first series of coinage issued by the Irish Free State, designed by artist Percy Metcalfe. His initials 'PM' are often found on these issues, though they are obscured here by wear. The craftsmanship represents the transition of Ireland into an independent state, utilizing traditional Gaelic iconography in a modern numismatic format.