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2025 Sovereign Collection
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2025 Sovereign Collection
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The Laurel

Similar to the angel, the laurel gained its name from a design that appeared on the obverse. Although the laurel initially had the same value as the unite – 20 shillings – these newer gold coins had a lighter weight. As they were to circulate alongside the earlier unite coins, it was decided that a new coinage portrait of James I would help the public to distinguish between the two. This new coinage portrait featured a laureate design similar to the Roman coins of the past, and earned the coin the name of ‘laurel’.

Half-laurels with a value of ten shillings and quarter-laurels with a value of five shillings were also struck during the lifetime of this denomination.

Specification

Specification Value
Alloy 22 Carat Gold
Quality Circulating
Pure Metal Type Gold
Specification Value
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