CVC & Collectables presents this 1560-61 England 1 Shilling, issued during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I (1558-1603), is an important piece of early Tudor coinage, reflecting England’s efforts to restore monetary stability after the debasement of previous rulers. Struck in sterling silver (.925 fine), this coin represents Elizabeth’s first reformed coinage, reinforcing confidence in English money making it a strong historical piece from the Elizabethan era.
Coin Highlights:
- Issuer: England (Tudor Dynasty)
- Reign: Elizabeth I (1558-1603)
- Date: 1560-61
- Denomination: 1 Shilling
- Composition: Silver (.925 fine, Sterling Silver)
- Weight: 5.70 g
- Diameter: Approx. 32 mm
- Edge: Irregular (as typical for hammered coinage)
- Grade: NGC VF Details — Well-circulated with moderate wear; obverse graffiti noted.
- Catalog Reference: Spink #2555 (S-2555)
Obverse:
- Design: A crowned bust of Queen Elizabeth I, facing left, wearing a high-necked Tudor dress.
- Inscription: ELIZABETH D G ANG FR ET HIB REGINA
- Translation: “Elizabeth, by the Grace of God, Queen of England, France, and Ireland.”
Reverse:
- Design: The royal coat of arms of England, supported by a long cross dividing the fields into quadrants, each containing lions and fleurs-de-lis.
- Inscription: POSVI DEV ADIVTOREM MEV
- Translation: “I have made God my helper.”
Historical Significance:
- Elizabethan Coinage Reform (1560-61):
- This coin was issued as part of Elizabeth I’s reformation of England’s currency, following the debasement crisis under Henry VIII and Edward VI.
- The restoration of sterling silver (92.5% purity) helped stabilize the economy and rebuild public trust in English money.
- Political Context:
- During this period, Elizabeth I faced tensions with Spain, France, and internal threats from Catholic factions, making economic stability crucial to her reign.
- The inclusion of “France” in her title reflects England’s continued claim to the French throne, despite losing Calais in 1558.
Collectibility:
This 1560-61 England 1 Shilling (Elizabeth I, NGC VF Details) is a historically important coin for collectors. Though it has surface imperfections, this coin remains a rare and highly collectible piece from one of England’s most famous monarchs. A stunning relic from the dawn of Elizabeth’s reign, symbolizing England’s economic recovery, rising power, and enduring legacy! Find more alike here!
