Potin Unit Rounded Bull / Holman E3

Evans: H7 (1864, p. 123, pl. H).

Allen Type: H1, J2.

Van Arsdell ‘Rounded Bull’.

David Holman proposes a detailed classification in A New Classification System for the Flat Linear Potin Coinage. These coins correspond with his Group E, which derive from Holman Group D.

Holman characterises Group E (Allen J2-4 and K) as having an improved standard of casting, and neater flans and designs. Striations are much less in evidence. The head almost always has a pellet within the eye ring. The bull is more angular, composed of curves and straight lines, usually with two crescents above. The tail is curved, as is one of the forelegs. Given the variability of the series, Holman suggests a degree of flexibility, where the features given are not taken to be exact. There are five subgroups in Group E, of which this is the third:

Subgroup E3 (including Allen H1 and J2) is neatly produced but can suffer from poor casting. The bull is straighter, sometimes close to Group F, but gently curved, with a tail and rear leg of a single line curving slightly forwards over the body. The inner front leg is also slightly curved but straighter than earlier types. The coins are 15-16.5mm and 1.0-2.0g. None have yet been noted with striations.



Next in the chronological sequence is Holman E4. The previous type is Holman E2. The previous group is Holman D and the next is Holman F.