William IV Royal British Hanover Coat of Arms Engraved Print Block Crown Royalty

Description

This is an original steel printing die from the reign of William IV (1830–1837), featuring 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, royal proclamations, legal certificates, or financial instruments during the final years before the separation of the British and Hanoverian crowns in 1837.

The finely engraved design features the quartered shield, displaying the three lions of England, the lion rampant of Scotland, the harp of Ireland, and the Hanoverian arms, symbolizing Britain’s connection to Hanover under William IV. The shield is supported by the lion of England and the unicorn of Scotland, with an elaborate royal crest and mantling above, emphasizing the sovereign’s authority. The surrounding mottoes, \”Dieu et mon droit\” and \”Honi soit qui mal y pense,\” reinforce the royal legitimacy and the traditions of the Order of the Garter.

Steel dies such as this were essential in government printing, official authentication, and security measures during the early 19th century. As steel engraving replaced copperplate engraving, dies like this became standard for high-relief printing, letterpress, and embossing techniques, ensuring sharp, durable, and high-quality impressions on state-issued records, royal decrees, and financial documents. Given its exceptional craftsmanship, this die was likely produced for use by the British Royal Mint, government printing offices, or a legal institution, where it would have been used to create official seals and secure documentation.

The inclusion of Hanoverian arms confirms that this die predates 1837, as Queen Victoria’s ascension to the throne led to 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 function within a printing press environment indicates that it played a crucial role in standardizing and securing official documentation, making it an important example of early 19th-century printing technology and governmental authentication practices.

Constructed from a solid piece of steel, this die remains in original fine condition and is of museum quality. A one-of-a-kind artifact, it is authentic and historically correct, a rare surviving example of high-security document production in the British government or financial institutions of the William IV era.

Weight: 172 grams. Height: 23.3mm. Width: 19.1mm. Length: 40mm.