1558-1603 Elizabeth I Silver Halfcrown

Elizabeth I Silver Halfcrown (1558–1603)

A Rare and Regal Denomination from England’s Golden Age

The Elizabeth I Silver Halfcrown is a prized and elusive piece of Tudor coinage, struck during the long and transformative reign of Queen Elizabeth I. As the second-highest silver denomination of the era (worth two shillings and sixpence), the halfcrown was minted in extremely limited quantities and is considered one of the rarest silver issues from her reign.

🔹 Historical Significance

Elizabeth I’s reign marked the English Renaissance—a period of cultural achievement, religious consolidation, and maritime expansion. Her coinage served not only as a tool of commerce but also as a powerful statement of sovereignty, legitimacy, and divine rule.

The halfcrown was first introduced under her father, Henry VIII, but under Elizabeth, it remained a rare and ceremonial denomination, struck primarily for prestige, presentation, or large transactions rather than daily use. As a result, surviving examples are scarce and highly coveted.

🔸 Design Features

Obverse

• Portrait: Crowned bust of Queen Elizabeth I facing left, wearing ornate dress and jewelry.

• Legend (example):
  “ELIZABETH D G ANG FR ET HIB REGINA”
  (Elizabeth, by the Grace of God, Queen of England, France, and Ireland)

• Portrait styles vary across different issues and mint periods, with some examples showing exquisite detail.

Reverse

• Design: Royal coat of arms quartered with the lions of England and fleur-de-lis of France, set over a long cross.

• Legend:
  “POSVI DEV ADIVTOREM MEV”
  (I have made God my helper)

• A bold, declarative Christian motto, echoing the Queen’s Protestant identity.

🔹 Specifications

• Denomination: Halfcrown (2 shillings and 6 pence)

• Monarch: Elizabeth I

• Metal: Sterling Silver (.925 fine)

• Weight: Approx. 15–16 grams

• Diameter: ~33–35 mm

• Strike: Hammered

• Mint: Tower Mint, London (primarily)

• Coin Condition-Fine

🔸 Collectability

• Rarity: Among the rarest silver denominations of Elizabeth’s coinage. Far fewer were struck than shillings or sixpences, and surviving examples are seldom encountered, especially in higher grades.

• Historical Value: An outstanding piece for Tudor collectors, this coin represents the grandeur of Elizabethan England and the complexities of hammered coin production.

🏛️ Conclusion

The 1558–1603 Elizabeth I Silver Halfcrown is a coin of immense historical and numismatic interest. It embodies the strength, sophistication, and symbolism of England’s Virgin Queen and remains a rare gem in the world of hammered Tudor coinage. For the discerning collector, owning such a piece is to hold a fragment of England’s golden past.