Description
The Hammered English Coin Edward III 1356-61 2P refers to a two-penny (2p) coin, also known as a “groat” (though typically groats were worth 4 pennies), minted during the reign of King Edward III between the years 1356 and 1361. This period is known for significant developments in English coinage, particularly the introduction of new designs and denominations.
Key Features of the Coin:
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Denomination: The 2p coin, sometimes referred to as a “half-groat”, was worth two pennies (rather than the larger groat, which was worth four pennies). Edward III issued various denominations, with the 2p coin being among the smaller denominations in circulation.
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Obverse: The obverse of the coin typically features a portrait of King Edward III, often depicted in full-face or facing right. Surrounding the king’s image is the inscription: “EDWARDUS REX ANGLIE”, meaning “Edward, King of England.”
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Reverse: The reverse usually features a cross design with alternating floral symbols or crowns in the quarters. The reverse often carries the inscription “CIVITAS LONDON”, indicating the mint where it was struck (in this case, London), though other mints may be seen on some coins of this period. This design is part of Edward III’s coinage reform in the mid-14th century.
Edward III Coinage (1356–1361):
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Reign and Context: Edward III ruled from 1327 to 1377, and his reign marked an era of military campaigns (including the Hundred Years’ War against France) and significant changes to English coinage. Edward III’s coinage is particularly well-known for the “King’s Ship” and “Tealby” type designs, but during the period from 1356 to 1361, his coinage was influenced by the need for funds to support military campaigns, and the economy saw a lot of changes.
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Coin Reform: Edward III’s coinage during this period was known for the “Tealby” design, which featured a long cross on the reverse, dividing the coin into four quadrants. The Tealby penny (and smaller coins) were introduced in the mid-1350s and became a dominant style for many years.
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Minting in London: London was one of the key mints during Edward III’s reign, and “CIVITAS LONDON” appears on many coins minted there. However, Edward III also issued coins from other cities, including York and Bristol, and this variety can influence the coin’s rarity and value.
Value and Rarity:
The value of a 2p Edward III coin depends on several factors, including:
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Condition: Coins that are well-preserved and show clear details (such as the king’s portrait and the reverse cross design) are generally worth more. Coins that are worn, damaged, or unclear can reduce the coin’s value significantly.
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Rarity: Certain mint marks or variations in the design can make the coin rarer, which in turn can increase its value. For example, if the coin was minted at a secondary mint (other than London), it might be considered rarer and thus more valuable.
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Historical Significance: The Tealby style and other coin designs from Edward III’s reign are important from both a historical and numismatic perspective. The coins were part of the effort to create a standardized and consistent currency across the kingdom, which makes them important artifacts from a time of significant political and economic change.
How to Assess the Coin’s Value:
To determine the value of a specific Edward III 2p coin from this period, you should consider:
- Condition: The better the condition, the higher the value. Coins with legible inscriptions, clear portraits, and well-defined crosses are more valuable.
- Mint Mark and Design: If the coin has a distinctive mint mark (e.g., “CIVITAS LONDON”), that could add to its rarity and value.
- Demand: As with all historical coins, collector demand plays a big role in determining value. Coins from this period that are well-preserved and carry significant historical or rarity factors tend to attract higher bids at auction or among collectors.
