Stuart coins found metal detecting – For metal detectorists, few discoveries can match the thrill of unearthing a Stuart coin. These small, often intricately designed artifacts offer a direct and tangible link to 17th century Britain, providing a unique window into the tumultuous political, economic, and cultural landscape of one of England’s most pivotal periods. Each coin, whether a gold unite or a humble copper farthing, tells a story of monarchs, civil war, and the everyday transactions of people who lived during a time of great change and upheaval.
This comprehensive guide will explore the fascinating world of Stuart coins found metal detecting, delving into their historical significance, varied types, and the excitement of discovering these pieces of 17th century currency. Whether you’re a seasoned detectorist with a passion for post-medieval numismatics or a newcomer eager to understand the importance of your finds, this resource will help you identify, appreciate, and contextualize the Stuart coins you may be fortunate enough to uncover in the field.
Stuart coins span a relatively short but intensely eventful period, from the accession of James I in 1603, then Charles I and through Cromwell’s Commonwealth period to the restoration of the House of Stuart with Charles II and on to James II, the joint Monarchs of William and Mary, then William on his own as William III and through to the death of Queen Anne in 1714. Throughout this time, the British monetary system underwent significant changes, reflecting the political instability, economic pressures, and technological advancements of the era.
The most common Stuart coins found by detectorists are often silver issues, including shillings, sixpences, and groats. These were the everyday coins of 17th century Britain, used for moderate transactions and often lost in substantial numbers. Copper coins, such as farthings and tokens, are also frequently found and provide insights into local economies and the shortage of small change during this period.
Gold coins, such as the unite, guinea, and later the five-guinea piece, are rarer but exceptionally exciting discoveries, often associated with hoards or high-status sites. Each denomination tells us something about the Stuart economy, the impact of civil war on currency, and the circulation of wealth across the kingdom.
The imagery and inscriptions on Stuart coins serve as a form of royal propaganda, asserting the legitimacy of monarchs, commemorating important events, and reflecting the changing political landscape. The obverse typically features a portrait of the reigning monarch, while the reverse might depict royal arms, national symbols, or Latin mottos reflecting the political and religious ideologies of the time.
Stuart coins hold a special allure for many metal detectorists, offering a unique combination of historical significance, artistic merit, and numismatic interest. Here’s why these 17th century pieces of currency continue to excite both amateur enthusiasts and professional researchers:
Firstly, Stuart coins found metal detecting provide an unparalleled opportunity to hold a piece of relatively recent yet profoundly influential history in your hands. The thrill of unearthing a coin that witnessed the English Civil War, the Restoration, or the Glorious Revolution creates an immediate and visceral connection to a pivotal era in British history. For detectorists, this physical link to Stuart times can be deeply moving, allowing them to bridge the centuries and connect with the economic and political life of 17th century Britain.
Secondly, Stuart coins serve as precise dating tools for archaeologists and historians. The detailed chronology of Stuart coinage, with its changing portraits, inscriptions, and mint marks, allows finds to be dated often to within a few years. This precision makes Stuart coins invaluable for understanding the chronology of post-medieval sites and the economic impact of political events across different regions of Britain.
Lastly, the variety of Stuart coins that can be found is diverse and historically informative. From common issues to rare types minted during sieges or by rival factions, each coin offers insights into Stuart politics, economics, and art. This diversity keeps the hunt exciting, with detectorists always on the lookout for rare monarchs, mint marks, or types that could shed new light on 17th century numismatics or historical events.
The process of cleaning, identifying, and researching Stuart coins can be deeply rewarding, encouraging detectorists to develop their knowledge of 17th century history, politics, and numismatics. As they learn to decipher worn inscriptions, recognize different monarchs’ portraits, and understand the significance of mint marks and dates, detectorists often find themselves on a journey of continuous learning and discovery.
Moreover, the distribution of Stuart coin finds can reveal important information about trade patterns, the impact of civil war on local economies, and the extent of monetary circulation in 17th century Britain. Patterns of coin loss can indicate areas of high activity, such as markets, taverns, or military encampments. For detectorists, this means that each coin recovered is not just a personal treasure but a potential contribution to broader historical and archaeological research.
By carefully recording and reporting their Stuart coin finds, including accurate location data, metal detectorists contribute valuable information to numismatists and historians. This data helps build a more comprehensive picture of coin circulation and economic life in 17th century Britain. The collaboration between hobbyists and academics in this field has led to significant advancements in our understanding of post-medieval British history and numismatics.
The search for Stuart coins is not just about recovering 17th century currency; it’s about uncovering the economic and political pulse of a nation in transformation, piecing together historical narratives, and contributing to our collective knowledge of this crucial period in British history. For metal detectorists, each Stuart coin represents an opportunity to touch a tumultuous past and play a part in preserving its numismatic legacy for future generations.
Metal detecting is a hobby that combines the thrill of treasure hunting with a deep appreciation for history. Every outing holds the potential for an extraordinary discovery, and on one bright spring morning, that potential became a reality. This is the story of how I unearthed my biggest hammered silver […]
Continue Reading