Lot 1154
Great Britain. Noble, ND. S-1503. Fr-95. Annulet before the king's name. London mint. Treaty Period (1361-69) with the Aquitaine title. Cross-potent mm, also used 1361-69. As the Spink guide book relates, during this reign sizable gold coins were introduced to the "people" for the first time in history, beginning in 1344 with the leopard coins, called gold florins (also struck were a half and a multiple), but these did not succeed and evidently precious few survived the early 14th century. The gold florin had a heavy French influence in its design, which may have accounted for its unpopularity. Right away, however, another kind of gold coin was produced, the noble, the first of its kind and the first large gold coin of England. Its metal content equaled 80 pence in contemporary value, or a third of a pound, which was a handy figure, easily reckoned by those who might use it. While its weight changed slightly in later years, it remained highly popular, and indeed a "noble" coinage. This piece was made during the era of the Treaty of Bretigni of 1360, when part of the king's claimed French title was removed for political reasons. Some were made at a temporary English mint at Calais, France, but this specimen was minted "at home" in London. And what a great coin it is! Mint State, a gem example of the first noble issued in England. Crisp strike showing outstanding detail in every area of the design except at the very end of the king's legend on obverse. Even most of the outer rim shows! Full 14th-century luster! A splendid coin indeed, for a first-rate collection. Superb Mint State.
Estimated Value $3,500 - 4,500.
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