My Coin Collection
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Over twenty years ago, I bought this coin from a street trader at the time of the excavation of the Roman cemetery in Spitalfields. In 1576, John Stow wrote about the Roman coins that were dug up here in Spitalfields and I suspect mine came from the same source. A visit to the British Museum confirmed that the coin had been minted in London and the piercing was done in the Roman era when it was the custom to wear coins as amulets. Somebody wore this coin in London all those centuries ago and today I wear it on a string around my neck to give me a sense of perspective.
As you can see, my collection has grown as I have discovered that coin collectors are eager to dispose of pierced coins at low prices and I have taken on the responsibility of wearing them on behalf of their previous owners. It was only when the string broke in Princelet St one dark night in the rain at Christmas and I found myself scrabbling in the gutter to retrieve them all that I realised how much they mean to me.
Coin of the Emperor Arcadius minted in London
Figure of Minerva upon the reverse
Silver sixpence minted at the Tower of London, 1569
Head of Queen Elizabeth and Tudor rose
Silver sixpence minted at the Tower of London, 1602
Head of Elizabeth
Silver sixpence, 1676
Head of Charles II
Farthing, 1749
Head of George II
Silver sixpence, 1758
Head of George II
Young Queen Victoria
Half Farthing, 1844
Head of Queen Victoria
Silver sixpence, 1896
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The silver sixpence coins are lovely. Farthings went out of circulation in the year I was born, 1961, but I remember the pretty design with the little wren.
My favourite coin is the 5 Franc piece here in Switzerland- it’s big and reminds me of chocolate Christmas money ☺️
By piercing a hole through the coin, you render them valueless! Got a couple in my collection, often wonder who wore them.
So touching.
I hope you found them again !
Really enjoyed looking at your coins . I’ve a few similar email me sometime if your interested in seeing .
That is a very impressive coin collection you have!
How fascinating. I’ve had 5 silver threepenny bits with holes through them since the 1950s. Tiny little coins. I don’t recall where they originated from, but presumed they may have well made up part of a bracelet at one time.