![Postcard of Coin (reverse), unicorn, from reign of James IV.](/database/media.php?file=postcard/image/0098/00984331.jpg&PHPSESSID=fe6ml03m92m121vjor0ftoel65) 000-190-000-350-C © National Museums Scotland |
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Coin (reverse), unicorn, from reign of James IV
This is the reverse of a gold unicorn minted at Edinburgh between around 1488 and 1505, during the reign of James IV. The coin was worth 18 shillings Scots.
The reverse has a large wavy star superimposed on a cross fleury. The Latin inscription translates as: 'Let God arise and let His enemies be scattered'. The words are taken from Psalm 68.
James IV's coins were mainly continuations of the types issued during the previous reign. Those stylistic changes that did occur were largely backward-looking. No attempt was made to follow James III's example of using a realistic portrait.
Record details
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Online ID: |
000-190-000-350-C |
Image Rights Holder: |
National Museums Scotland |
Project: |
0098: National Museums Scotland
Project description | View all records in project |
Ref: |
National Museums Scotland H.C107 |
Date: |
1488 - 1505 Between around 1488 and 1505
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Material: |
Gold; fairly worn. Inscription: Obv. Lis IACOBVS : DEI : GRACIA : REX : SCOTORVM : :; stops are double six-pointed stars, last one probably double struck; unicorn to left, supporting shield of arms; crown around neck; chain and ring below / Rev. Lis EXVR
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Dimensions: |
25.00 mm D / Die Axis: 9.0
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What: |
Coin Type: Stewart I (James III), Murray Z (Ie) Coin, unicorn
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Subject: |
Queen Street Coin Collection
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Who: |
James IV
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Where: |
Scotland, Midlothian, Edinburgh
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Event: |
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Description: |
James IV gold unicorn, Edinburgh, 1488 - 1505
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References: |
- 'Currency' multimedia programme NMS 1995
- Stewart, I.H. 'The Scottish Coinage'. Second Edition. London: Spink & Son, 1967
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Translations: |
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