Irish Coinage
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Detail Image

© 2010 - Copyright
John _ Stafford-Langan
Version 1.17a
23 June, 2010

This is an irish farthing from 1660-61 issued by Sir Thomas Armstrong under an patent granted by Charles II.

This coin is in the style of the earlier English royal farthings of James I and Charles I from before the English Civil War - but heavier and with better executed dies.

Importantly, however this coin was issued for use in Ireland whereas the earlier coins were not. The earliest examples from 1613-1622 were explicitely designated as the only English coin not authorised for circulation in Ireland.

The legends read :

CAROLVS II D G M B / FRA ET HIB REX
translated and expanded :
Charles II by the grace of God / King of Great Britain, France and Ireland .

This coin is in Very Fine condition. There is light overall wear and a striking weakness around the II at the lower part of the obverse legend. There is also some evidence of light corrosion - most notably above the obverse crown.

Examples of Armstrong's farthings are difficult to obtain in Very fine or better condition. Coins with light overall corrosion and resulting pitting of the surfaces are more commonly available.

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