ADVENT ARCHANGEL MICHAEL

ARCHANGEL MICHAEL

1461–1470

Edward IV coin depicting Archangel Michael

In the summer of 2007 an amazing discovery occurred on the driveway of a house in the Village of Asthall, near Burford. 210 gold coins were found dating from 1470–1547. The hoard was probably buried for safekeeping, and perhaps belonged to a wealthy wool merchant.

The coins are called angels after the Archangel Michael who is depicted on them. The coins were first minted in 1465 which was a time when the ideal of a knighthood was highly regarded. Archangel Michael is a military saint so it made the perfect subject for the new coinage.

Edward IV coin depicting Archangel Michael, 1461–1470

1461–1470
Gold
26 mm
Greater London
HCR4884

See it on display in our Money Gallery

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ADVENT ARCHANGEL MICHAEL

ARCHANGEL MICHAEL

Advent Calendar Day 16

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