Lot 2123
Great Britain. Sovereign of 30 Shillings, ND. S.2529; Fr-209. Elizabeth I, 1558-1603. 30 shillings value. Facing portrait of the queen with full insignia of state, crowned, against a "diapered" background, suggestive of the purple drapery associated with royalty since the Empire of Rome. Fifth Issue of 1583-1600. Escallop and escallop over "A" mintmarks (the escallop used 1584-86, the "A" used 1582-84, making it a reasonable estimate that this coin was struck in or within months of 1584). Reverse:A gigantic Tudor rose, in full bloom, holding in its center the royal shield. Legend on reverse copies that used on Mary's sovereign. This handsome piece was produced during the fifth issue (1582-1586) of the Queen's coinage, and a little before the appearance of the Spanish Armada in 1588. The consignor's research suggests that possibly only 6 examples are known of this combination of mintmarks, all struck from rusted dies. In fact the mintage was fairly large for all the gold denominations of this reign, which Sutherland points out was one of the benefits to England of "increased supplies in Europe of gold and silver originating from American sources," as well as from specie seized from the treasure ships of England's arch enemy during this reign, Spain. The wealth of the nation became abundant while Elizabeth was queen; the coinage became de facto the first modern coinage, of types that continued as denominations for many years to come; and England started to take on the skin of empire in these years, thanks in part to the genius of her queen. But Elizabeth's gold is not plentiful anymore, and some of it quite rare, especially in high grade, because of the vicissitudes of history over the coming centuries. Most surviving fine sovereigns cannot approach this specimen in quality. A lovely coin! NGC graded MS-62.
Estimated Value $17,500 - 22,500.
The Cheshire Collection.
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| Realized $18,400 |
