Finest James I Rose Ryal (third Coinage) MS62. Ex Law

This imposing coin, measuring 43mm in diameter, serves as a testament to the artistic skill and meticulous craftsmanship prevalent at the Royal Mint during the 17th Century.

Sharply struck on a lovely flan, with only petty striking weakness noted at a very few points; the centres are exceptional. Magnificent, natural deep colour. 

Holding the esteemed distinction of being the finest known example of this type (jointly across both grading agencies), this coin occupies a preeminent position within the realm of hammered coinage. Its exceptional provenance, tracing back to the renowned Law Collection, further enhances its significance.

James I, the first Stuart monarch of England, assumed the throne following his reign as James VI of Scotland. This unification of the crowns had a notable impact on his coinage. Subsequent to 1604, the royal titles and, consequently, the coat of arms featured on his coins underwent modification to reflect his expanded territories, incorporating the Irish harp and the Scottish lion. This coin is from the third (and final) coinage and marked a culmination of James I's numismatic reforms aimed at unifying his realms through symbolic coin designs.

The Rose Ryal, valued at 30 shillings, represented the largest gold denomination produced during James I's reign.

The coinage of James I is widely regarded as among the most diverse and aesthetically compelling of the British monarchy, with this particular coin arguably representing its zenith. The sheer variety of portrait styles, designs, and coin types is remarkable, establishing a level of diversity unparalleled until the extensive decimal coinage of Elizabeth II.

GREAT BRITAIN. James I, 1603-1625. Rose-ryal, ND (1623-24). Lis. Third Coinage.

S-2632; North-2108; Fr-239; KM-66.2. 193.2 grains. Seated James I holding orb and scepter; intricate field of lis pattern and portcullis at feet. Rv. Square topped quartered shield center, ‘XXX’ above. All within beaded ring with alternating lis-lion-rose emblems.