Antique Steel Engraved Royal Print Block Coat of Arms British Royalty Cipher UK

Description

This original steel printing die from the period of William IV (1830–1837) features the British Royal Coat of Arms from the Hanoverian era. Designed for use in a printing press, this die was likely employed in the production of official documents, legal certificates, banknotes, or embossed royal seals during the final years before the separation of the British and Hanoverian crowns in 1837. The intricate engraving showcases the quartered shield, with the three lions of England, the lion rampant of Scotland, the harp of Ireland, and the Hanoverian arms, reflecting Britain’s connection to Hanover under William IV. The shield is supported by the lion and unicorn, traditional heraldic symbols of England and Scotland, while the royal crown above signifies the authority of the reigning monarch. The surrounding mottoes, \”Dieu et mon droit\” and \”Honi soit qui mal y pense,\” emphasize the royal sovereignty and the chivalric traditions of the Order of the Garter.

Steel dies such as this were an essential part of government printing and security measures in the early 19th century, as steel engraving had largely replaced copper due to its durability and ability to create sharp, high-quality impressions. Given the official nature of this die, it was likely produced for use in the British Royal Mint, government printing office, or a legal institution, where it would have been pressed into paper, foil, or wax to authenticate official decrees, financial documents, and state-issued papers. The deep relief and craftsmanship suggest it was designed for high-volume use, ensuring consistency in royal insignia across official print materials.

The use of the Hanoverian arms confirms that this die predates 1837, as Queen Victoria\’s ascension to the throne that year resulted in the removal of Hanoverian elements from the British coat of arms. As a historical artifact, this piece represents the final years of the Hanoverian dynasty in Britain and the administrative evolution of the royal government under William IV. Its presence in a printing press environment suggests it was part of the infrastructure used to standardize and secure official documentation, making it an important example of early 19th-century printing technology and governmental authentication practices.

The condition is original and fine, with museum-quality preservation. This one-of-a-kind artifact is authentic and correct, weighing 25.56 grams, with a height of 23mm, width of 8.5mm, and length of 17mm. The die also features engraved initials \”AP\”, which may indicate the engraver, the printing office, or a previous owner involved in its historical use.