Mintmarks on the Elizabeth I Seventh Issue Half Groat

Mintmarks on the Elizabeth I Seventh Issue Half Groat

The silver half groat of Elizabeth I from the seventh issue demonstrates the use of numeric mintmarks during the final years of her reign. Mintmarks were small identifying symbols placed on coins to distinguish production periods within the same issue.

For this particular coinage, the mintmarks used were the numbers 1 and 2. These numerals indicate separate striking periods within the seventh issue and allow more precise classification of the coins.

On the obverse, the mintmark appears at the 12 o’clock position above the crowned bust of the queen. The same numeral is repeated on the reverse, positioned at the top of the shield design.