Elizabeth I pattern “pledge” copper penny
An extremely rare copper Pattern Pledge penny. This pattern was produced in 1601 for a proposed copper coinage which was never realised during Elizabeth’s reign.
This lot from a DNW shows how the find would have looked when struck. It was engraved by Charles Anthony and shows a crowned bust of Elizabeth three-quarters left in elaborately embroidered dress, with jewels and ruff collar, toothed border both sides. The penny was struck in both silver and copper, with the copper being more scarce. The auction lot fetched £4,100.