Henry VIII, Groats (2), second coinage, London, m.m. rose, second bust, (a) similar portrait but shorter neck, crown does not break inner circle, Lombardic lettering, single saltire stops, double before MEV, reads DI G and FRAC, rev. saltires in cross-ends (Laker bust B; Whitton p.207 (i) 2; N.1797; S.2337D); (b) smaller bust with 'Greek profile' and pointed chin, reads DI G and FRANC (Laker bust C; Whitton p.207 (i) 2; N.1797; S.2337D), the first well worn but fine; the second lightly double struck and has been creased, otherwise toned, very fine, both rare (2)

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Details

Henry VIII, Groats (2), second coinage, London, m.m. rose, second bust, (a) similar portrait but shorter neck, crown does not break inner circle, Lombardic lettering, single saltire stops, double before MEV, reads DI G and FRAC, rev. saltires in cross-ends (Laker bust B; Whitton p.207 (i) 2; N.1797; S.2337D); (b) smaller bust with 'Greek profile' and pointed chin, reads DI G and FRANC (Laker bust C; Whitton p.207 (i) 2; N.1797; S.2337D), the first well worn but fine; the second lightly double struck and has been creased, otherwise toned, very fine, both rare (2)

Special notice

No VAT will be charged on the hammer price, but VAT at 17.5% will be added to the buyer's premium which is invoiced on a VAT inclusive basis.

Lot Essay

Whitton, p.191, distinguishes three portraits on second coinage Groats, first, second and third. Laker identifies four busts, A, B, C and D, with B and C being a subdivision of Whitton's second portrait. Individual dies vary and it is not always easy to precisely assign the intermediate styles.