Elizabeth I Silver Sixpence 1558-1603

The Elizabeth I silver sixpence (1558–1603) is a historically significant coin minted during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, one of England's most iconic monarchs. These coins were an essential part of Elizabethan currency and were widely used in everyday transactions.

Design and Features

Obverse (Front)

• Features a left-facing, crowned portrait of Queen Elizabeth I.
• The legend (inscription) reads:
  "ELIZABETH D G ANG FRA ET HIB REGINA",
  which translates to "Elizabeth, by the grace of God, Queen of England, France, and Ireland."
• Some variations exist in the portrait and crown design depending on the year and mint mark.

Reverse (Back)

• Displays the royal shield quartered with the arms of England and France, symbolizing Elizabeth’s claim to the French throne.
• The legend often includes:
  "POSVI DEV ADIVTOREM MEV", meaning "I have made God my helper" (a reference to Psalm 54:4).
• Many sixpences also feature a date above the shield and a mint mark, which identifies the year and mint location.

Historical Context

• Elizabeth I’s reign (1558–1603) was known for stability, the defeat of the Spanish Armada (1588), and the flourishing of English culture during the Renaissance.
• The sixpence was a key silver coin used by merchants and common people alike.
• Some sixpences were used as love tokens, with smoothed-down surfaces for personal engravings.

Notable Variations

• Hammered Coinage: All sixpences of Elizabeth I were hand-struck (hammered) before the introduction of machine-minted coins in the early 17th century.
• Bust Types: The Queen's portrait evolved over time, with different bust types used to reflect her aging appearance.
• Mint Marks: Different symbols (such as stars, roses, and anchors) were used to identify the year of minting.

Rarity and Value

• The value of an Elizabeth I sixpence depends on condition, date, and mint mark.
• A worn example might be worth £30, while a well-preserved or rare variant can fetch hundreds or even thousands of pounds at auction.
• We offer these coins in Fair/Fine and GoodFine condition