Name/Title
CE 1547 - 1553 Edward VI - GroatDescription
Edward VI (1547–1553), Silver Groat (4 Pence), London Mint
Struck 1547–1551
Silver
This hammered silver groat was issued during the reign of Edward VI, son of Henry VIII and king of England from 1547 to 1553. The denomination was valued at four pence, making it a significant circulating coin in mid-Tudor England.
The obverse features a crowned, right-facing portrait of the young king with a surrounding Latin legend naming him as ruler of England, France, and Ireland. The continued inclusion of “France” reflects the longstanding English dynastic claim to the French throne. The reverse displays the royal shield over a long cross fourchée, a traditional Tudor design element that structured the legend and facilitated identification in circulation.
Edward VI’s coinage belongs to the period commonly known as the Great Debasement, initiated under Henry VIII, during which the silver content of English coinage was reduced. Later in Edward’s reign, efforts were made to improve the standard of the coinage, though full restoration occurred under Elizabeth I.
Denomination: Groat (4 Pence)
Mint: London
Reference: Spink S-2403; North 1871
Grade: PCGS Fine-15Create Date
September 3, 2025Update Date
May 25, 2026
