$9,268.00 USD
Struck in 1624 at the Tower Mint in London, this gold Laurel was part of King James I's third and final coinage (1619–1625). The Laurel, valued at 20 shillings, succeeded the Unite and was introduced to standardize gold coinage during a period of economic adjustment. The coin's name derives from the laurel wreath adorning the king's head, symbolizing victory and sovereignty. This issue reflects the monarch's efforts to unify his realms and assert his authority through consistent and recognizable coinage.
Obverse: Features the fourth laureate bust of King James I facing left, with the value mark "XX" (20 shillings) behind his head. The Latin legend reads: “IACOBVS D G MA BRI FRA ET HIB REX” (James, by the grace of God, King of Great Britain, France, and Ireland). The trefoil mintmark indicates the coin was struck in 1624.
Reverse: Displays a crowned, square-topped shield bearing the royal arms, quartered by a long cross. The surrounding inscription reads: “FACIAM EOS IN GENTEM UNAM” (I will make them one nation), a biblical reference from Ezekiel 37:22, emphasizing James I's vision of uniting his kingdoms.
Specifications:
Denomination: Laurel (20 Shillings)
Mint: Tower Mint, London
Composition: Gold (.917 fineness)
Weight: Approximately 9.0 grams
Diameter: Approximately 25 mm
Catalog References: Spink 2638B; North 2114; Friedberg 242
Graded PCGS AU53, this coin exhibits sharp details and a lustrous surface, remarkable for its age. Gold Laurels from this period are rare, especially in such high grades, making this a highly sought-after piece for collectors of early Stuart coinage and British numismatic history.
