© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
3 Pence - Elizabeth I Third Coinage ND
| Billon (.250 silver) | 1.31 g | 20 mm |
| Issuer | Ireland |
|---|---|
| Queen | Elizabeth I (1558-1603) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1601-1602 |
| Value | 3 Pence (1⁄80) |
| Currency | Second Irish Pound (1460-1826) |
| Composition | Billon (.250 silver) |
| Weight | 1.31 g |
| Diameter | 20 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#332617 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Crowned harp within beaded inner circle
Script: Latin
Lettering: POSVI · DEVM · ADIVTOREM · MEVM
Translation: I have made God my helper
Comment
The mint-mark (which appears on both sides) is a date indicatorThese coins occur with 3 mint-marks: the trefoil, the star and the martlet
The trefoil was first, and in use from the date of the indenture, 2nd February 1601, until the pyx trial of 20th May 1601
Following the pyx of 20th May 1601, the mint mark was changed to star.
On 24th May 1602 the star pieces were pyxed, and the mint mark changed to martlet.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the 3 Pence - Elizabeth I (Third Coinage) ND (1601-1602) from Ireland is that it was made of Billon, which is an alloy of silver and other metals, in this case, containing 25% silver. This was a common practice during that time period, as pure silver was too expensive to use for everyday coinage. The use of Billon allowed for the production of coins that were more affordable and durable than those made of pure silver, while still maintaining some level of intrinsic value.
