Great Britain: Charles II gold Pattern Broad 1662 AU55 NGC,...

Description

The First Milled Gold Coin Of Charles II

Charles II gold Pattern Broad 1662 AU55 NGC, KM-Pn32, S-337A, N-2780 (Rare). By Thomas Simon, signed with a small sideways 'S' beneath Charles's portrait. A gorgeous Broad, the only 1662 dated gold coin of Charles II, and the direct precursor to the Guinea. Often thought of as a pattern and certainly a trial coinage as it were, current evidence suggests that this issue was in fact intended to circulate; adjustment marks on many examples demonstrate strict weight control, whilst the wear often seen on this type suggests day-to-day use. It is very easy to consider a pattern, however, for its excellent engraving and careful production, and this high-quality is likely a statement to King Charles II himself.

1660 saw the restoration of the monarchy welcoming the return of Charles II with open arms, and in celebration the Tower Mint immediately began producing hammered coins bearing the portrait of the new King. However, strides had been taken during the preceding Commonwealth of England to introduce new milled coinage, and this process continued during the first few years of Charles's reign. Thomas Simon, the master engraver behind this new milled coinage also responsible for the Commonwealth Great Seal, was aware of the King's displeasure that he had worked directly for his father's executioner, and accordingly was eager to demonstrate his skill to Charles and continue his patronage. Simon thus acted very fast in producing such pieces as Charles's coronation medal, 1660-dated milled patterns and the present Broad (just four years after he had produced Cromwell's) in exceptionally high quality so as to impress the new King. This attempt to gain Charles's favor crescendoed in 1663 with the production of his famed Petition Crown.

The present example is minimally worn, every stroke of Simon's work still sharply detailed and illuminated with a gorgeous amber tone; fields of such lustrous depth that they appear Prooflike, beginning in the centers as reflective and becoming ethereal as they meet the peripheries of this superb coin. Of outstanding visual appeal, embroiled in a major turning point in English coinage, and surely fit for a King!
From the Collection of A Scottish Gentleman

Metal: Gold

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