Coin, copper, issued by George III, 1797.

Copper 'cartwheel' penny of George III

Georgian, issued in 1797

These large coins were struck by Matthew Boulton at the Soho Mint, Birmingham, using the new steam powered press. They were not struck at the mint in London because Boulton was able to obtain the copper at a cheaper rate than the Government. This is an example of the first issue of the penny in copper. The inscriptions on both sides are incuse (stamped in) and on a broad band hence gaining the name 'cartwheel' money for coins of this type.