$7,500.00 USD
The 1658 Silver Half Crown emerged during a transformative period in British history known as the Commonwealth of England, following the English Civil War and the execution of King Charles I in January 1649. This era represents the only time the British monarchy was abolished, creating a unique chapter in the nation's monetary history.
Oliver Cromwell, who rose to become Lord Protector in 1653, wielded significant authority over England, Scotland, and Ireland until his death in September 1658—the very year this coin was minted. This timing gives the 1658 Half Crown particular significance as it was produced during the final year of Cromwell's rule, marking the end of an unprecedented political experiment in British governance.
The coinage of the Commonwealth period underwent a fascinating evolution that directly parallels its political transformations:
· Initial Commonwealth coins (1649-1656) featured a stark "Puritan" style with English legends and simple heraldic designs
· Later issues, including the 1658 Half Crown, reintroduced portraiture with Cromwell styled as a Roman emperor
· Latin legends replaced English inscriptions, suggesting a return to more traditional and prestigious presentation
· The legend variations for Ireland ("HI" on earlier 1656 issues vs. "HIB" on 1658 coins) provide distinguishing characteristics
Several distinctive characteristics make the 1658 Half Crown identifiable and add to its collector appeal:
· Edge inscription: "+. HAS. NISI. PERITVRVS. MIHI. ADIMAT. NEMO."
· Translation: "Let no one remove these from me under penalty of death"
· "HIB" variation in the legend (more common than the scarcer "HI" variant of 1656)
· Fine details in Cromwell's portrait and the shield of arms
· Uniformity of strike characteristic of milled (rather than hammered) production
A historically significant and visually compelling example of Cromwellian coinage, this 1658 Silver Half Crown graded PCGS AU55 exhibits a well-preserved portrait of the Lord Protector and a sharply defined reverse shield. The coin's subtle toning and minimal wear highlight its near-Mint State preservation, making it a prized acquisition for collectors of English Civil War and Commonwealth-era numismatics.
