Edward VI shilling – Durham House

This is Roger Paul’s second Edward VI profile shilling to be featured this week. The last specimen was struck at the Southwark mint but this one was created at the Durham House mint (The Strand, London). This was a new mint, which helped to speed up the production of debased silver coins; the faster they were made and put into circulation then greater the profit for the royal coffers.

This shilling has mint mark bow on both sides and is undated. It was struck during the second period of debasement but the bust on the obverse first appeared on shillings during the first period (see number 2465C in the Standard Catalogue). The coin is unusual in that the legends are transposed, so the name and titles of Edward VI are on the reverse instead of the obverse. In the Standard Catalogue this type is listed as number 2470. However, this is a very rare variety with a wire line inner circle on the obverse and a beaded inner circle on the reverse.

Valuation

The reverse has been struck slightly off centre and has a scratch across the base of the shield but is otherwise in good Fine condition. The obverse is not as good, as it has a crease mark all the way across it and half of the legend is badly double struck. The overall state of preservation leaves much to be desired but it is a rarity, which should still be worth at least £200.

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