1377-1399 Richard II Silver Hammered Halfpenny

Richard II Silver Hammered Halfpenny 1377–1399

A fascinating piece of medieval English history, this Richard II silver hammered halfpenny, dating from the reign of Richard II (1377–1399), represents one of the smaller denominations of the late 14th-century English coinage.

Richard II became King of England in 1377 at just ten years old, succeeding his grandfather Edward III. His reign was marked by political conflict, rebellion and considerable changes in English society. Coins from his reign provide a tangible connection with this turbulent period of medieval history.

Coin Details

• Ruler: Richard II
• Reign: 1377–1399
• Denomination: Halfpenny
• Metal: Silver
• Method: Hammered
• Mint: London, Tower of London
• Date: 1377–1399
• Typical weight: Approximately 0.5–0.6 g
• Typical diameter: Approximately 14 mm
• Condition: Fine

The British Museum records a Richard II silver halfpenny struck at London during 1377–1399, with a recorded weight of 0.43 g. Other catalogued examples vary in weight, reflecting the handmade nature, wear and clipping found on surviving medieval hammered coins.

Obverse

The obverse features a crowned facing portrait of Richard II, surrounded by a Latin inscription identifying the king. Depending on the precise variety, the legend can appear as RICARD REX ANGL or a closely related form.

The facing portrait is characteristic of the medieval English halfpenny series and is particularly appealing to collectors because the small flan can make the portrait and surrounding legend challenging to strike fully.

Reverse

The reverse displays the distinctive long cross pattée, accompanied by groups of pellets in the quarters. Around the design is the mint inscription:

CIVITAS LONDON

meaning “City of London.”

The London mint was responsible for Richard II's halfpennies, and the London attribution can be identified through the reverse legend.

Hammered Coinage

Unlike modern milled coins, this halfpenny was produced using the traditional hammered coinage method. A prepared silver flan was placed between two dies and struck by hand with a hammer.

This manufacturing process explains the irregular shape, uneven strike and variations in size that are commonly seen on surviving Richard II halfpennies. Each coin was effectively an individual product of the medieval minting process.

Historical Interest

Richard II's reign covers an important period in English history, including the Peasants' Revolt of 1381, the growing influence of Parliament and the eventual political crisis that led to Richard's deposition in 1399.

A small silver halfpenny such as this would have been part of everyday medieval commerce. Although modest in denomination, it provides an unusually direct connection to ordinary economic life during the late 14th century.

**Please Note: The image shown is taken from our coin library. The coin you receive may differ slightly in appearance, including date, mint or minor details, but it will be of a similar type and in the same overall condition as the example illustrated.