English coin Angel
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The Angel was an English gold coin introduced in 1464 during the reign of Edward IV. Production lasted until 1643 during the reign of Charles I.
The initial value of the coin was six shillings and eight pence (6s/8d) or 1/3 of a pound (80 pence). The coin was introduced after the Ryal (120 pence) proved unpopular as the standard was 80 pence from the previous Noble coin used.
During the regin of Edward IV, the coin had a weight of 80 grains (5.2 grams) and a diameter of 27-31 mm. Later on in 1472 the Half Angel was introduced with a similar design. It weighed 40 grains (2.6 grams) and had a diameter of 20-21 mm. In the same year the Bristol mint began producing them as well.
Obverse: Depicts the archangel St. Michael spearing the dragon of evil. Legend: EDWARD DI GRA REX ANGL Z FRANC meaning Edward by the grace of God King of England and France.
Reverse: Depics a ship with arms and rays of sun at the masthead. Legend: PER CRUCEM TUAM SALVA NOS CHRISTE REDEMPTOR meaning by Thy cross, save us, O Christ, our Redeemer.
The value fluctuated over time:
- In 1526 during the reign of Henry VIII, it increased to seven shillings and six pence (7s/8d) or 90 pence.
- In 1544, it increased again to eight shillings (8s) or 96 pence.
- In 1550 during the reign of Edward VI it increased to ten shillings (10s) or 120 pence.
- In 1612 during the reign of James I it increased to eleven shillings (11s) or 132 pence.
- In 1619 it decreased to ten shillings (10s) and at that point in time it weighed 70 grains (4.5 grams).
Eventually in 1663 during the regin of Charles II, coinage was replaced with entirely new designs and struck by machine (milled). The standard gold coin became the Guinea.
