½ Groat - Robert II ND (1371-1390) front ½ Groat - Robert II ND (1371-1390) back
½ Groat - Robert II ND (1371-1390) photo
© Heritage Auctions

½ Groat - Robert II ND

 
Silver 1.88 g 22 mm
Description
Issuer
Scotland (United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies)
King
Robert II (1371-1390)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1371-1390
Value
½ Groat
Currency
Pound Scots (1136-1707)
Composition
Silver
Weight
1.88 g
Diameter
22 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-08
References
Numista
N#88038
Rarity index
95%

Reverse

Long cross with a star in each quarter

Script: Latin (uncial)

Lettering:
DNS PROTECTOR MEVS :

VILLA ED PERTH

Lettering (regular font):
DNS PROTECTOR MEVS :

VILLA ED PERTH

Translation:
God is my Defender

Town of Perth

Comment

There are several legend variants:

The obverse legend may end 'SCOTTOR', 'SCOTTORV', 'SCOTTORVM' or 'SCOTORVM'.

The inner reverse legend may read 'VILLA ED PERTH' or 'VILLA DE PERTH'. 'VILLA ED PERTH' is thought to be an error, but since it occurs on several types of coin, it might signify a mint location at either Edinburgh or Perth. These mints are known to have been interdependent, with a number of die links recorded. The coins were issued during the Black Death, when it may have been necessary to switch location at short notice. See 'The ‘ED PERTH’ mint signature on the coins of Robert II', BNS Research Blog, 24 June 2021, by David Rampling for more information.

Interesting fact

The ½ Groat coin from Scotland, issued during the reign of Robert II (1371-1390), is interesting because it was made of silver, which was a valuable and durable material at the time. Despite its small denomination, the coin was made with a high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail, featuring intricate designs and inscriptions that reflect the cultural and historical significance of Scotland during that period.