Introduction:
The 1343 Edward III Florin, also known as the Double Leopard, stands out as one of the most fascinating and valuable coins in the history of British numismatics. With only three known specimens in existence, this coin not only represents a significant part of medieval monetary history but also captures the imagination of collectors and historians alike.
Historical Context
The Edward III Florin was minted during the reign of King Edward III, a period marked by economic reforms and military campaigns. In 1343, Edward III sought to strengthen England’s economy and facilitate trade with continental Europe by introducing a gold coinage system. The Florin, valued at six shillings, was part of this effort, alongside the half-florin (three shillings) and the quarter-florin (one and a half shillings).
Design and Symbolism
The coin’s design is both intricate and symbolic. The obverse features King Edward III seated on a throne, holding a sword and scepter, symbolizing his authority and the unity of the kingdom. Surrounding the king are two leopards, a nod to the royal arms of England. The reverse depicts a cross with a leopard in each quarter, further reinforcing the regal imagery.
Rarity and Discovery
Despite the ambitious introduction, the Edward III Florin was short-lived. The coin’s value was misaligned with the contemporary gold market, leading to its withdrawal from circulation within a year. Most of the coins were melted down, leaving only a few surviving specimens.
To date, only three examples of the 1343 Edward III Florin are known:
- The British Museum Specimen: Discovered in the River Tyne in 1857, this coin is now housed in the British Museum, where it remains a highlight of their numismatic collection.
- The Fitzwilliam Museum Specimen: Found in the 1930s, this coin is part of the Fitzwilliam Museum’s collection at the University of Cambridge.
- The Private Collection Specimen: The most recent discovery, found by a metal detectorist in 2006, was sold at auction for a record £460,000 in 2006 and remains in a private collection.
Significance and Value
The 1343 Edward III Florin is more than just a coin; it is a tangible connection to the medieval past, offering insights into the economic and political landscape of 14th-century England. Its extreme rarity and historical importance have made it one of the most sought-after coins in the world.
The coin’s value, both monetary and historical, continues to rise. The auction of the private collection specimen highlighted its worth, setting a new standard for medieval coinage.
Conclusion:
The 1343 Edward III Florin is a testament to the rich history and intricate craftsmanship of medieval England. Its rarity and the story of its brief circulation make it a fascinating subject for collectors and historians. Whether housed in a museum or a private collection, this coin remains a cherished artifact, reflecting the enduring legacy of Edward III’s reign.
FAQ: 1343 Edward III Florin – A Medieval Rarity
1. What is the 1343 Edward III Florin?
The 1343 Edward III Florin, also known as the Double Leopard, is a medieval gold coin minted during the reign of King Edward III of England. It was part of an effort to establish a gold coinage system to strengthen the economy and facilitate trade with continental Europe.
2. Why is the 1343 Edward III Florin so rare?
The Edward III Florin is extremely rare because it was withdrawn from circulation within a year of its introduction due to its misalignment with the gold market value at the time. Most of the coins were melted down, leaving only three known surviving specimens.
3. What are the known surviving specimens of the Edward III Florin?
There are three known surviving specimens of the 1343 Edward III Florin:
- One in the British Museum, discovered in the River Tyne in 1857.
- One in the Fitzwilliam Museum at the University of Cambridge, found in the 1930s.
- One in a private collection, discovered by a metal detectorist in 2006 and sold at auction for £460,000.
4. What is the design of the Edward III Florin?
The obverse of the Edward III Florin features King Edward III seated on a throne, holding a sword and scepter, with two leopards at his sides. The reverse shows a cross with a leopard in each quarter, reflecting the royal arms of England.
5. What was the value of the Edward III Florin when it was minted?
The Edward III Florin was valued at six shillings when it was minted. The half-florin was valued at three shillings, and the quarter-florin at one and a half shillings.