Edward IV, 1st Reign (1461-70) gold Half Ryal ND, S-1963, N-1558 (rare), Light Coinage (1464/5-70), York mint ("E in waves), mm Sun (struck 1465-66 or 1467-68), AU55 NGC, king's name obliterated by striking, otherwise the legends are plainly readable, the strike evenly sharp with details showing in the tiny face of the monarch, no problems or flaws -- quite a choice and desirable example of this rarer type. A new Latin legend was employed for the reverse of the Ryal, translating to mean "Oh Lord, rebuke me not in Thine indignation" (Psalm 6:1), perhaps suggestive of the king's moral dilemma of Christian devotion versus the treatment of enemies during this period of monarchial war. In the commercial world from which this coin was saved centuries ago, the old gold Noble (and its halves and quarters) was replaced by the new gold Ryal and its fractions (sometimes called the Rose Noble) in the year 1465, or late 1464, reflecting a change in intrinsic value. In order to accommodate the wealthier class, the gold Angel was also created within a couple of years. The traditional gold coinage was, step by step, making transitions from its medieval character to that of the coming Renaissance. The central sunburst seen on the reverse of this intriguing coin became a familiar symbol in the years ahead.From The Marston Collection of British Coins.
Estimate: 4000.00-5000.00 USD