Drachmas, Doubloons and Dollars: The History of Money

New Sources: The 15th and 16th Centuries

Tudor England

In 1485, Henry VII (1485-1509) defeated Richard III (1483-1485), thereby establishing the house of Tudor as the new English dynasty. The separation of the Church of England from the Roman Catholic Church under Henry VIII led to widespread conflict under Mary I (1553-1558) and Elizabeth I (1558-1603). Elizabeth I particularly had problems with her cousin, Mary Queen of Scots (1542-1567). Coining methods during this period became more mechanized and produced cleaner-looking coins.

English silver groat of Richard III, from London.

English gold double sovereign of Henry VII, from London, showing the English coat of arms within the Lancastrian rose.

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English gold sovereign of Henry VIII, from the Tower of London mint, depicting the king enthroned.

Scottish gold crown (1553) of Mary, Queen of Scots, depicting her monogram with a crown.

English gold pound of Elizabeth I, from London.