Lot 352
Charles I (1625 - 1649), ‘Fine Work’ Shilling, mm. harp, 1632 – 1633, Group 'D', Obverse Crowned bust of Charles left with
Ancient, British and World Coins, Tokens and Medallions | 111
Auction: 5 July 2023 at 09:50 BST
Description
Charles I (1625 - 1649), ‘Fine Work’ Shilling, mm. harp, 1632 – 1633, Group 'D', Obverse Crowned bust of Charles left with lace collar, denomination behind 'XII'. 'CAROLVS D'G' MAG' BRI' FR' ET HI' REX'. Rev. Crowned and garnished oval Royal Arms dividing crowned 'CR', 'CHRISTO AVSPICE REGNO' (I reign under the auspice of Christ). 31mm, 6.04g, (S 2789 var; Sharp D 2). Extremely fine, well struck with underlying lustre.
This 'Fine Work' shilling differs from the regular issues in a number of respects; the coin is neatly round, the engraving of the die is more sharply and intricately engraved and the striking is strong and central. There has been a fair amount of conjecture as to what these very rare, so-called Fine Work issues are that occur at this period and it is supposed that they might be trials to showcase the strength of the mint at the time and the quality they could produce.
