½ Thistle Merk - James VI (8th Coinage) 1601-1604 front ½ Thistle Merk - James VI (8th Coinage) 1601-1604 back
½ Thistle Merk - James VI (8th Coinage) 1601-1604 photo
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

½ Thistle Merk - James VI 8th Coinage

 
Silver (.916) 3.40 g 27 mm
Description
Issuer
Scotland (United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies)
King
James VI (1567-1625)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1601-1604
Value
½ Merk (⅓)
Currency
Pound Scots (1136-1707)
Composition
Silver (.916)
Weight
3.40 g
Diameter
27 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-09
References
Numista
N#89707
Rarity index
94%

Reverse

Crowned thistle.

Script: Latin

Lettering: REGEM · IOVA · PROTEGIT · 1601

Translation: Jehova protects the king

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the ½ Thistle Merk - James VI (8th Coinage) 1601-1604 from Scotland is that it features a unique blend of Scottish and French influences in its design. The coin's obverse features a portrait of King James VI, while the reverse depicts the Scottish thistle, a symbol of Scotland, surrounded by French-style fleur-de-lis. This blending of design elements reflects the cultural exchange and political alliances between Scotland and France during the early 17th century.