Reproduction Edward IV Gold Angel

Obverse: St. Michael represented as a winged figure standing with right foot on ground and left foot on a dragon about to thrust it into the Pit with a cross-topped lance (the dragon represents Satan). Text around EDWARD DEI GRA REX ANGL Z FRANC.

Reverse: A ship bearing a royal shield and cross, e and rose at the sides. Text around PER CRUSE TUA SALVA NOS XPC REDETOR.

History: Edward IV was a central figure in the Wars of the Roses, a series of civil wars fought between the Yorkist and Lancastrian factions between 1455 and 1487. Edward IV was King from 4 March 1461 to 3 October 1470, then again in his second reign from 11 April 1471 until his death in 1483.

During Edward IV’s first reign, light coinage was introduced in August 1464 in order to increase the supply of bullion to the mint. At this time a new coin was issued called the Angel. This Angel is from his second reign and during this period the Angel and Half-Angel were the only gold denominations issued. The type and weights of the coins remained the same as the light coinage of Edward's first reign.

Date: Mintmark Pierced Cross, London, Second Reign, 1473-7

Diameter: 2.7cm