England – Edward I–II (1272–1327) – AR Silver Farthing – London Mint – Plantagenet Dynasty – Medieval Hammered Coin
Country: England
Dynasty: Plantagenet
Ruler: Edward I–II (1272–1327 AD), attributed
Denomination: Farthing (¼ Penny)
Mint: London (Tower), attributed
Metal: Silver (AR)
Weight: 0.26 g
Diameter: 11 mm
Condition: Good Fine – Near Very Fine (GF–NVF), according to the collector’s ticket
Reference: Cf. SCBC 1450ff
Obverse: Crowned facing bust of the English monarch, surrounded by a partially preserved Latin inscription. Portions of the crown and facial features remain visible despite circulation wear and irregularities of the flan.
Reverse: Long cross pattée extending toward the outer inscription, dividing the field into four quarters, each containing three pellets. The central cross and pellet arrangements remain clearly recognizable, while the peripheral legend is incomplete.
Historical Background:
This medieval silver farthing belongs to the coinage traditionally associated with the reigns of Edward I (1272–1307) and Edward II (1307–1327), two monarchs of England’s Plantagenet dynasty.
Edward I, known as Edward Longshanks, introduced significant reforms to English coinage in 1279, establishing a more standardized monetary system and expanding the production of smaller denominations.
The farthing, valued at one-quarter of a penny, played an important role in everyday commerce, allowing merchants and ordinary citizens to conduct transactions involving relatively small amounts.
The long-cross design was a characteristic feature of English medieval silver coinage. The extended cross also served a practical purpose, helping distinguish the coin’s quarters and discourage clipping.
Coins of this denomination provide a tangible connection to the economic and social history of medieval England.
Condition and Collector’s Notes:
An attractive example of a small medieval English hammered silver denomination, attributed to the reigns of Edward I–II.
The obverse retains portions of the crowned facing bust and surrounding inscription, although some details have been weakened by circulation.
The reverse displays a recognizable long cross pattée and groups of pellets, with comparatively strong central relief.
The coin exhibits an irregular flan with areas of edge loss, grey toning, darker surface deposits and general circulation wear.
The recorded weight of 0.26 g and diameter of 11 mm are consistent with a small medieval silver denomination.
The London mint attribution and precise classification have not been independently confirmed from the surviving legends.
A desirable historical collectible for enthusiasts of medieval English coinage, Plantagenet history and early hammered silver denominations.
The photographs show the actual coin offered for sale and form an integral part of the description.