Previous Lot Next Lot

Auction: 25124 - Spink Numismatic e-Circular 43: British and World Coins and Medals - e-Auction
Lot: 376

MIDDLESEX, London, Pidcock's Elephant Halfpenny, undated, elephant, rev. rhinoceros right, obliquely milled edge, 9.45g, 6h, (D&H 416a), lustrous and with hints of red, extremely fine; Pidcock's Two-headed cow Halfpenny, undated, two-headed cow, rev. royal arms, edge plain, 6.67g, 6h (D&H 455), with some lustre, about extremely fine; Pidcock's Farthing, undated, elephant, rev. cockatoo, edge plain, 3.34g, 6h (D&H 1067), scratch to reverse, otherwise with a hint of red, about extremely fine (3)

Pidcock had worked in travelling shows from a young age, and in 1795 took sole ownership of the London menagerie. As well as exotic animals, the exhibit was also notorious for its unusual specimens, famously a two-headed heifer. The London Chronicle wrote, 'This very remarkable creature has two Heads, Four Horns, Four Ears, Four Nostrils, through each of which it breathes, &c. This truly wonderful Curiosity is the only one of the kind in Europe'.

Subject to 20% VAT on Buyer’s Premium. For more information please view Terms and Conditions for Buyers.

Sold for
£320

Starting price
£70