Coin (reverse), balance quarter-merk, from reign of James VI

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This is the reverse of a silver balance quarter-merk minted at Edinburgh in 1591, during the reign of James VI. The coin was worth three shillings and four pence Scots.

The reverse has a balance with a sword behind. The Latin inscription translates as: 'In these a tyrant differs from a king'.

The coins of James VI's reign are considered to have the most beautiful designs and most varied legends of all Scottish coins. After the Union of the Crowns of 1603, Scottish gold and silver coins closely resembled their English counterparts.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-190-000-554-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  H.C3276
• Date: 1591
  
• Material: Silver; slightly buckled at edge, some abrasions on highest points; moderate wear. Inscription: Obv. * IACOBVS . 6 . D . G . R . SCOTORVM . 1591; initial mark is a cinquefoil; crowned shield between two thistles / Rev. * . HIS . DIFFERT . REGE . TYRANNVS
  Coin Type: 6th coinage
  Coin, balance quarter merk
  
• Dimensions: 24.00 x 24.50 mm D / Die Axis: 8.5
  
• What: Coin Type: 6th coinage
  Coin, balance quarter merk
  
• Subject: Queen Street Coin Collection
  
• Who: James VI
  
• Where: Scotland, Midlothian, Edinburgh
  
• Event:
• Description: James VI silver balance quarter-merk, Edinburgh, 1591
  
• References:
  • 'Currency' multimedia programme NMS 1995 
  • Richardson (1901), 53 
  • Stewart, I.H. 'The Scottish Coinage'. Second Edition. London: Spink & Son, 1967 
• Translations:
• Related Records: