© Heritage Auctions
© Heritage Auctions
1 Shilling - Charles I Pontefract siege coinage
1648 year| Silver | 4.7 g | 29 mm |
| Issuer | England (United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies) |
|---|---|
| King | Charles I (1625-1649) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Year | 1648 |
| Value | 1 Shilling (1⁄20) |
| Currency | Pound sterling (1158-1970) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 4.7 g |
| Diameter | 29 mm |
| Shape | Octagonal (8-sided, Also lozenge shaped or round) |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-08 |
| Numista | N#46404 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Image of Pontefract Castle, hand holding sword to right side, legend around, date below.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
OBS P C
1648
Translation: Siege of Pontefract Castle
Comment
Pontefract, in West Yorkshire, was a strategic Royalist site and was subject to several sieges during the 1640's. It was during the Second English Civil War (1648-49), when Pontefract was again besieged, that coins were issued for it. Oliver Cromwell himself was instrumental in the garrison's eventual capitulation and Parliament had the castle demolished later in 1649.Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the 1648 Charles I Pontefract siege coinage 1 Shilling coin is that it was minted during the English Civil War, specifically during the siege of Pontefract Castle, which was a key stronghold of the Royalist forces. The coin was minted using silver from looted church plate and other sources, and its production was overseen by the Royalist military leader, Prince Rupert. Despite being minted in a time of war and turmoil, the coin still features a detailed portrait of Charles I and the traditional symbols of the British monarchy, such as the crown and scepter. This coin is a unique piece of history that provides a glimpse into the tumultuous period of the English Civil War and the efforts of the Royalist forces to maintain control.
