Description
Elizabeth I (1558-1603), Pound, Seventh issue (1601-3) ‘Crown’ Gold coinage, mintmark 1 both sides (29th July 1601-14th May 1602), crowned bust left, inner toothed borders both sides, hair trailing loose behind, Queen wearing ruff and richly decorated dress, pellet stops, legend surrounds ELIZABETH DG ANG FRA ET HIB’ REGINA. Rev, crowned and garnished flat topped quartered coat of arms, E and R flanking, legend reads SCVTVM FIDEI PROTEGET EAM, 11.15g (S.2539; N.2008; BC.F24; Schneider 805: BC 2).
A fully centred strike with attractive bright toning, subtle mirrored surfaces in the eastern legend inscription, fields clear with the exception of some mild annealing flaws. A well struck and imposing bust, a little softness in parts of the dress, otherwise splendid. Reverse, marginally off centre, boasting a satiny tone, underlying red mint brilliance when held to good light. The quartered coat of arms displaying little distortion in the first quarter fleur de lis emblems, otherwise executed with pin point clarity. Good very fine, scarce.
