Description
Mary (1542-1567), Testoon, countermarked, 1st period, type IIIa, dated 1557, mintmark cross potent, high-arched crown, lion struck in centre of double bordered shield, M and R either sides with annulets below, legend surrounds MARIA DEI G SCOTOR REGINA 1557. Rev, mintmark crown, large cross potent with individual crosses in angles, crowned thistle countermark for the 1578 revaluation in the first quarter, legend surrounds IN VIRTVIE IVA LIBERAME 1557, 5.86g (S.5404; SCBI 35 [Ashmoleon], 1010-12).
Host coin near very fine, countermark better, a nicely toned example on a fully rounded flan. Some flatness on the obverse as a result of the countermark pressure from the reverse protruding through. An intriguing coin, rare. £875
