Description
James I (1603-1625), Shilling, Second coinage (1604-19), fifth bust, mintmark Key (c.1609-10), inner linear circles both sides, crowned King right with longer hair, value behind, legend surrounds IACOBVS DG MAG BRIT FRA ET HIB REX. Rev, flat topped quartered coat of arms, READS QVÆ DEVS CONIVNXIT NEMO SEPARET, 6.02g (S.2656; N.2101).
A fully centred strike on good metal, portrait comprehensive with a pleasing depiction of King’s beard, the eye particularly well struck, part of crown and hair also splendid; some weakness to the western side of crown, armour all well detailed and defined. Legends generally legible with some areas blocky, both sides. Reverse, the quartered shield showing some weakness in Irish harp, otherwise pleasing. Very fine with light grey cabinet tone, few nicks or scratches. Mintmark key considered rare for issue.
