James I Gold Quarter Laurel
Good Fine Condition
Price: £2,150.00
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Product code: HISJ1QLGF
- Rare denomination – The gold Laurel was struck entirely in the reign of James I
- The name "Laurel" comes from the laurel wreath depicted on King James I's head on the obverse of the coin.
- There were three distinct coinages of the Laurel throughout James I's reign. Each coinage might have slight variations in the king's portrait or other design elements.
- Owning a gold coin, symbolized wealth and status in early 17th century England. Quarter Laurels were likely possessed by merchants, wealthy individuals, or used for specific royal transactions
- Quarter Laurels were minted during a period of political and economic change. James I faced challenges in uniting England and Scotland
- Certified authenticity by The Royal Mint
- Offered in Good Fine Condition
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The Laurel
Similar to the angel, the laurel gained its name from a design that appeared on the obverse. Although the laurel initially had the same value as the unite – 20 shillings – these newer gold coins had a lighter weight. As they were to circulate alongside the earlier unite coins, it was decided that a new coinage portrait of James I would help the public to distinguish between the two. This new coinage portrait featured a laureate design similar to the Roman coins of the past, and earned the coin the name of ‘laurel’.
Half-laurels with a value of ten shillings and quarter-laurels with a value of five shillings were also struck during the lifetime of this denomination.
Specification
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Alloy | 22 Carat Gold |
| Quality | Circulating |
| Pure Metal Type | Gold |
| Specification | Value |
|---|
