Reproduction Henry VIII Gold Angel

Obverse: St. Michael represented as a winged figure standing with both feet on a dragon about to thrust it into the Pit with a cross-topped lance (the dragon represents Satan). Text around HENRIC VIII DI GRA REX AGL Z FR.

Reverse: A ship bearing a royal shield with cross above, h and rose at the sides. Text separated by double saltire stops. Text around PER CRVCE TVA SALVA NOS XPC RED.

History: Henry VIII was the author of the debasement of England’s gold and silver coinage, which started in 1526. However, for the first sixteen years of his reign the coinage closely followed the pattern of the previous issues, even to the extent of retaining the portrait of Henry VII on some coins.

This Gold Angel dates from coins minted before the debasement and is known as First Coinage.

Date: Mintmark Portcullis crowned, first coinage, 1509-26

Diameter: 2.8cm