Catalog
| Issuer | Ireland |
|---|---|
| Year | 1279-1284 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1/2 Penny (1⁄480) |
| Currency | Second Irish Pound (1460-1826) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 0.7 g |
| Diameter | 16 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Sp#6257-6259 |
| Obverse description | Bust facing forward within beaded triangle, Legend in three parts. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
ЄDW.R` ΛNGL.`D NShYB (Translation: Edward king of England and Lord of Ireland) |
| Reverse description | Long cross pattée dividing legend, trefoil of pellets in each quarter, surrounded by beaded circle. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
CIVI TΛS DVBL INIЄ (Translation: City of Dublin) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (1279-1284) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 5654452630 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This 1/2 Penny, from Edward I’s Second Coinage, Class I, minted in Dublin (1279-1284), marks a crucial period in Anglo-Irish numismatic history. Edward I, King of England and Lord of Ireland, initiated a significant monetary reform. This standardized Irish currency, aligning it with English issues, and asserted greater royal control. The halfpenny was vital, providing a much-needed smaller denomination for daily transactions in an era of growing monetization.
Artistry: The coin's design adheres to the prevailing English numismatic style of the late 13th century. Though specific engravers are unknown, Dublin mint artisans likely worked from English master dies. The obverse features a crowned, facing bust of Edward I, typically with 'EDW REX ANGL DNS HYB'. The reverse displays a long cross pattée, extending to the edge, with three pellets in each quarter, encircled by 'CIVITAS DVBLINIE'. This cross design was also practical for fractional cutting.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, weighing 0.7 grams and 16 millimeters, this halfpenny is a small issue. High-points for grading include the king's crown and facial features, and the central cross and pellets. Due to manual striking, common technical characteristics are off-centering, uneven strikes, and irregular flan shapes. Details, especially on legends and hair, are often weakly impressed or incomplete. Well-struck, centered examples with clear legends are rare and highly sought after, reflecting their heavy circulation.