Elizabeth I (1558-1603), milled issue, Sixpence 1562, i.m. star, large broad bust with elaborate dress, small rose behind, rev. Royal shield of arms over long cross fourchée, date 1562 above (N 2027; S 2596)

Very fine, light creases and portrait face weak

SOLD

Notes: this 'milled' coinage was the first English coinage produced by machinery rather than striking by hand. The process was introduced by a Frenchman, Eloye Mestrelle, and whilst producing coinage of a superior quality its output was too slow and thus discontinued. Milled coins for circulation began to be produced again only a century later under Charles II.