“Stop to admire this large silver crown, featuring a regal profile of King George III. It's a superb example of early 19th-century British coin design, reflecting the era's classical artistic tastes.”
This striking silver coin, known as the "Incorrupta" crown, features a powerful, classical profile of King George III. His features are rendered with crisp detail, reflecting the Neoclassical vogue that shaped much of the era's art. The coin's large diameter allows for an impressive amount of finely engraved detail, from the king's laurel wreath to the subtle textures of his hair. Created by William Wyon, who would later become chief engraver at the Royal Mint, this piece is a testament to the high standards of numismatic art in early 19th-century Britain. The "Incorrupta" inscription on the coin's reverse (not visible here) refers to the perceived integrity of the British monarchy, a message carefully crafted during a period of significant political and social change.
- Artist
- William Wyon
- Date
- 1817
- Medium
- Silver
- Location
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art
- Dimensions
- Diameter: 150 mm.
What to Notice
Four details hide in plain sight. Here’s where to look.

The intricate details of George III's laurel wreath, symbolizing victory and honor.
The king's stern, classical profile, typical of Neoclassical portraiture.
The precise rendering of his hair and facial features, a hallmark of fine engraving.
The uniform sheen of the silver, indicating its quality and preservation.
Stand in front of it and listen
The full narration walks you through George III "Incorrupta" crown — the story behind it, the details most visitors miss, and why it matters. Free in the Art Whisper app.
William Wyon
1795–1851 · British EmpireWilliam Wyon, Chief Engraver at the Royal Mint, left an indelible mark on British coinage and even the world's first adhesive postage stamp, the Penny Black.
Further Works by Wyon
"Three Graces" crown
1817 · The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Study for "Flying Victory"
1825 · The Metropolitan Museum of Art
George IV crown
1826 · The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Coronation of William IV
1831 · The Metropolitan Museum of Art
William IV proof crown
1831 · The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Queen Victoria's Visit to the Corporation of London
1837 · The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Victoria proof sovereign
1837 · The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Victoria sovereign
1838 · The Metropolitan Museum of Art
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