Watch List notes:

SCOTLAND. 1/2 Unit (Double Crown), ND (1637-42). Edinburgh Mint; mm: B. Charles I. NGC AU-55.
S-5534; Fr-57; Burns-5 (fig. 1034). Third Coinage, Briot's issue. A marvel of production and preservation, this piece is absolutely astonishing to view in-hand. It is expertly centered on both sides with remarkable definition to all elements. Considerable luster glows in the fields, appearing nearly prooflike on the reverse. Warm honey-gold patina in the protected areas contrasts with pale yellow color across the high points. A minor flan flaw is seen across the eyes of the portrait and a trivial waviness is noted under scrutiny. Incorrectly identified as S-5535 (Falconer's coinage) on the NGC label.

The half units, or double crowns, of the Charles I third coinage exemplify the monumental shift in quality introduced by Briot's mill and screw press. Sanctioned for use by the Lord of Secret Council on January 12th, 1637, the new press began production with the silver issues and it wasn't until December 14th that direction was given to begin striking gold. The half units are seen with both English and Scottish crowns atop the portrait, which seem to be of about equal rarity. The Scottish variants were evidently struck second as they feature a fleur de lis punched over the central cross of the English variety. Survivors of any variety remain VERY RARE, with only five examples sold publicly in the past 15 years. The present piece is among the very finest from this group and is traced to the 2006 sale of the Emile A. Tartakow Collection.

From the Loch Ness Collection.

Ex: Emile A. Tartakow Collection (Goldberg - 5/2006) Lot # 1265.

Estimate: $7000 - $10000