1 Testoon - Mary I (1st Period, Type IIIa) 1556-1557 front 1 Testoon - Mary I (1st Period, Type IIIa) 1556-1557 back
1 Testoon - Mary I (1st Period, Type IIIa) 1556-1557 photo
© Heritage Auctions

1 Testoon - Mary I 1st Period, Type IIIa

 
Silver (.916) 6.11 g 26 mm
Description
Issuer
Scotland (United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies)
Queen
Mary I (1542-1567)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1556-1557
Value
1 Testoon (⅕)
Currency
Pound Scots (1136-1707)
Composition
Silver (.916)
Weight
6.11 g
Diameter
26 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-08
References
Numista
N#53501
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Cross of Jerusalem.

Script: Latin

Lettering: IN · VIRTVTE · TVA · LIBERA · ME · 1557

Translation: In Thy strength deliver me

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the 1 Testoon - Mary I (1st Period, Type IIIa) coin from Scotland is that it features a unique blend of Catholic and Protestant imagery on its reverse side. The coin was minted during a time of religious upheaval in Scotland, and its design reflects the complex religious landscape of the country during that period. The reverse side of the coin features the Scottish coat of arms, which includes a combination of Catholic and Protestant symbols, such as the Madonna and Child, and the Scottish thistle. This blending of religious imagery is a rare example of ecumenicalism on a coin and highlights the complex religious dynamics of 16th-century Scotland.