Elizabeth I Silver Twopence 1558-1603

Elizabeth I Silver Twopence (1558–1603) – A Small Coin with Royal Legacy

The Elizabeth I Silver Twopence, minted during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I (1558–1603), is a fascinating piece of Tudor coinage. Though small in size, it played a crucial role in the everyday commerce of Elizabethan England. Struck in sterling silver (.925 fine), the twopence reflects the stability and reform of the English monetary system under the Virgin Queen.

Design Features

Obverse – Portrait of Elizabeth I

• The obverse features the famous left-facing bust of Queen Elizabeth I, often crowned, symbolizing her divine right to rule.
• Surrounding the portrait is the Latin inscription:

  "ELIZABETH D G ANG FR ET HIB REGINA"
  which translates to "Elizabeth, by the Grace of God, Queen of England, France, and Ireland."

• The portrait styles varied across different issues, but they all maintained the regal and authoritative image of the queen.

Reverse – Long Cross

• The reverse typically showcases the royal shield of England divided into quadrants, bearing the arms of England and France. This reflects England’s historical claim to the French throne.
• A long cross extends across the shield, a design feature that originally aimed to prevent the fraudulent clipping of silver coins.
• The inscription on the reverse reads:

  "POSVI DEV ADIVTOREM MEV"
  meaning "I have made God my helper"—a testament to Elizabeth’s Protestant faith and divine belief in her rule.

Specifications

• Monarch: Elizabeth I (1558–1603)
• Metal: Sterling Silver (.925 fine)
• Denomination: Twopence (2d)
• Weight: Approximately 0.94 grams
• Diameter: Around 16mm
• Edge: Plain

Coins are in Fine Condition

Historical Significance

✔ Monetary Reform:
Elizabeth I continued the monetary reforms begun under her father, Henry VIII, and brother, Edward VI. Her coinage, including the twopence, was known for its consistent silver content, restoring faith in English currency after previous debasements.

✔ Circulation & Use:
The twopence was a widely used small denomination coin in daily transactions. It held value in markets, trade, and even in paying laborers. These coins were frequently handled, making higher-grade examples scarce today.

✔ Elizabethan Age:
Minted during one of England’s most prosperous and culturally rich periods, the silver twopence would have circulated during the time of Shakespeare, Sir Francis Drake, and the defeat of the Spanish Armada (1588).

Collectibility and Condition

Elizabeth I Silver Twopence coins are highly sought after by collectors, especially in well-preserved condition. Due to their small size and extensive circulation, many surviving examples are found in Fine (F) to Very Fine (VF) condition. High-grade specimens with clear details, especially of Elizabeth’s portrait, command premium value in the numismatic market.

Conclusion

The Elizabeth I Silver Twopence (1558–1603) is a remarkable piece of Tudor coinage, reflecting the economic and political strength of England during the Elizabethan era. Despite its small size, this coin embodies the enduring legacy of Queen Elizabeth I and remains a treasured collectible among historians and numismatists alike.