Struck in sterling silver at the Tower of London Mint, this hammered Tudor denomination was part of Elizabeth’s Third Coinage and is among the smallest silver coins produced during her reign.
Coin Highlights:
- Issuer: England
- Monarch: Elizabeth I (1558–1603)
- Date: 1562
- Denomination: 1½ Pence (Three-Halfpence)
- Reference: Spink 2569, North 2000
- Grade: NGC XF Details
- Metal: Silver (.925 Fine)
- Weight: 0.64 Grams
- Diameter: 15 mm
- Mint: Tower of London Mint
- Strike: Hammered Coinage
- NGC Population: Top Pop at NGC
- PCGS Population: None Graded by PCGS
- Obverse: Crowned bust of Elizabeth I facing left with a rose behind the head and surrounding Latin legend.
- Reverse: Royal shield over long cross with the date divided on either side and the legend CIVITAS LONDON.
- Type: Tudor Hammered Silver Coinage
Historical Significance:
The three-halfpence was introduced during Elizabeth I’s Third Coinage and featured a rose behind the Queen’s portrait to distinguish it from other silver denominations. These coins circulated throughout England during one of the most influential periods in British history, when the nation emerged as a major European power.
Struck by hand using hammered techniques, each surviving example is unique. Their small size and heavy circulation make well-preserved specimens difficult to locate today.
Queen Elizabeth I History:
Queen Elizabeth I ruled England from 1558 to 1603 and is remembered as one of Britain’s greatest monarchs. Her reign saw the defeat of the Spanish Armada, expansion of English trade, and the flourishing of English culture during the age of Shakespeare. Elizabeth’s coinage helped restore confidence in England’s monetary system following the debasement issues of earlier Tudor rulers.
Collectibility:
Elizabeth I hammered silver coinage remains highly sought after by collectors of British, Tudor, and world coins. The tiny three-halfpence denomination is especially desirable due to its short production period and poor survival rate. This example’s Top Pop status at NGC, with no examples graded by PCGS, adds further appeal for advanced collectors. Find more alike here!
