1/2 Groat - James III Main Issue

James III's later coinage was struck against a backdrop of serious political instability — noble opposition to his reign intensified through the 1480s, culminating in the rebellion that ended at Sauchieburn in 1488, where the king died under circumstances still disputed by historians. The half groat issues from this terminal phase of his reign were produced at Edinburgh and are distinguished within the series by subtle changes to the crown style and lettering that allow approximate dating within the reign.

Spink 5292 specifically covers the main issue type, separating it from the earlier varieties with differing bust styles. Edinburgh was the sole operating mint by this period.