CVC & Collecatbles presents this medieval England 4 Pence (Groat) was struck at Calais during the reign of Henry VI, dating to 1422-1427. Cataloged as Spink S-1854, this hammered silver coin represents Henry VI’s early coinage and was produced at England’s strategically important mint at Calais. NGC has authenticated this example as Fine Details – Corrosion, with a certified weight of 3.35 grams.
Coin Highlights:
- Country: England
- Date Range: 1422-1427
- Denomination: 4 Pence (Groat)
- Ruler: Henry VI
- Mint: Calais
- Reference: Spink S-1854
- Composition: Silver
- Weight: 3.35 grams
- Coinage: Hammered
- Grade: NGC Fine Details
- NGC Designation: Corrosion
- Obverse: Crowned facing portrait of Henry VI surrounded by the royal legend.
- Reverse: Long cross with pellets in the angles and surrounding legends.
- Certification: Authenticated and encapsulated by NGC.
Design & Devices
The obverse features the traditional crowned, facing portrait of Henry VI, enclosed by a beaded border and medieval Latin royal inscription. Although surface corrosion has affected portions of the design, elements of the crown, portrait, and surrounding legend remain visible.
The reverse displays a long cross extending toward the outer border, with groups of pellets positioned within the angles. The surrounding legends identify the royal and minting authority, a design format characteristic of English medieval groats.
Henry VI History
Henry VI became King of England in 1422 while still an infant following the death of his father, Henry V. His reign unfolded during the later stages of the Hundred Years’ War and eventually the dynastic struggles known as the Wars of the Roses.
This coin dates to the earliest years of Henry VI’s reign, when England still controlled extensive territories in France and claimed the French crown.
Historical Significance
Calais was an important English possession in continental Europe and operated a royal mint for portions of the medieval period. Coins struck there provide a direct numismatic connection between England and its territorial presence in France during the Hundred Years’ War.
The groat, valued at four pence, was an important larger silver denomination within medieval England and played a significant role in everyday commercial transactions.
Condition
NGC has authenticated this example as Fine Details and notes Corrosion on the certification label. The coin weighs 3.35 grams and retains identifiable medieval devices despite the noted surface condition.
Collectibility
The combination of an early Henry VI issue, the Calais Mint, Spink S-1854 attribution, medieval hammered manufacture, and NGC authentication makes this an appealing historical piece for collectors of English, Tudor-predecessor, and Hundred Years’ War coinage. Find more alike here!
