Pre-Long Beach Auction #84

Great Britain. Rose Ryal, ND. S.2613; Fr-230. James I, 1603-1625. Mint mark, escallop. Struck in the period 1606-1607. Second coinage (1604-1619). King James enthroned, holding orb and scepter, facing, portcullis at feet, back of throne with scrolling. Reverse, shield of arms over rose. The centers of the coin are sharply struck, all lettering clear, and free from any marks or abrasions. Struck on a large round flan, with practically no evidence of wear. Surfaces are lustrous and original. One of the finest surviving specimens.
This was the last of the large 'Sovereign' series of coins which began with the Henry VII in 1489, and continued with the Sovereigns of Henry VIII, Edward VI, Mary and Elizabeth I. All of these rare coins feature the monarch, crowned and seated. PCGS graded AU-53. WINGS Approved.

* This coin was minted just three or four years after James began his reign, and shortly after the famous 'Gunpowder Plot.' In 1603 Queen Elizabeth I had died and was succeeded by King James VI of Scotland, the son of Mary Queen of Scots and Lord Darnley. He became James I of England, and united the two thrones. James had a love of pomp and ceremony (and his coinage was ornate and varied) but he alienated the Puritans by his High Church views, and Parliament by his assertion of the divine rights of monarchy. His many favorites, such as Buckingham, and his schemes for an alliance with Spain dented his initial popularity with the public, but despite his shortcomings he managed to avoid war and major financial problems. The contemporary description of James as 'The wisest fool in Christendom' seems remarkably appropriate.
Estimated Value $30,000 - 35,000.