1 Crown - James V (2nd Coinage, Type II) ND (1526-1539) front 1 Crown - James V (2nd Coinage, Type II) ND (1526-1539) back
1 Crown - James V (2nd Coinage, Type II) ND (1526-1539) photo
© Trustees of the British Museum

1 Crown - James V 2nd Coinage, Type II ND

 
Gold (.895) 3.39 g 26 mm
Description
Issuer
Scotland (United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies)
King
James V (1513-1542)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1526-1539
Value
1 Crown (3)
Currency
Pound Scots (1136-1707)
Composition
Gold (.895)
Weight
3.39 g
Diameter
26 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-09
References
Numista
N#301533
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Ornate cross with a thistle in each quarter. Annulet stops in the legend.

Script: Latin

Lettering: · CRUCIS · ARMA · SEQVAMVR

Translation: Let us follow the arms of the cross

Comment

The examplar coin is a mule of Type II (obverse) and III (reverse) crowns. It is fairly common for the dies of these two types to be paired.

A document from 1596 states that these coins were struck to a fineness of 21 carats (.875), as opposed to the 21.5 carats (.895) stated in the coinage's authorising document.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the 1 Crown - James V (2nd Coinage, Type II) ND (1526-1539) from Scotland is that it features a unique combination of motifs on its obverse and reverse sides. The obverse features a crowned bust of King James V, while the reverse depicts a Scottish coat of arms with a shield bearing the royal arms of Scotland, supported by two lions rampant. This coin was minted during a time of great change in Scotland, as it was transitioning from an independent kingdom to a union with England under the rule of James VI (later James I of England). Despite this, the coin still bears the traditional Scottish designs and motifs, showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage.