The tale of the Virginia Halfpenny is, unfortunately, a sad tale. Sad for the coin, that is. It was meant to be monumental: the only copper coin struck in England exclusively for a specific North American colony. Although it was authorized in 1773, the coin did not go into circulation until after the start of the American Revolution. Needless to day, the coin didnt get so very much prestige in the new country. Buy a halfpenny. Give it some love!