UK England 1 Gold Penny Henry III 1257–1272 Medieval Token Medal Replica

Henry III 1 Gold Penny (1257–1272) Medal – Brass Copy Replica

London Mint, England – Historic Design Reproduction

Obverse: Facing portrait of King Henry III enthroned, holding orb and sceptre.
Legend: HENRIC REX : III (King Henry III).

Reverse: Voided long cross with pellets and flowers in the angles.
Legend: WILLEM ON LVND (William of London).

Specifications:

• Issuer: England (United Kingdom)

• King: Henry III (1216–1272)

• Type: Reproduction of historic circulation coin

• Denomination: Gold Penny design

• Material: Brass (collector’s copy)

• Weight: 6.7 g (0.24 oz)

• Diameter: 21 mm (0.83 in)

• Shape: Round, hammered-style finish

• Mint (original issue): London, UK

📜 Historical Background

The original Gold Penny of Henry III, introduced in 1257, was England’s first attempt at a gold coin. Before this issue, merchants relied on Byzantine and Arabic gold coins for high-value trade. Henry III commissioned goldsmith William of Gloucester to strike this pure gold coinage.

Valued at 20 pence, the coin was unpopular and undervalued against its gold content. By 1265, most were melted down, and the king declared no one was obliged to accept them. As a result, very few originals survive today—only around eight known examples exist worldwide.

This brass reproduction faithfully follows the medieval design, allowing collectors to appreciate one of the most important milestones in English coinage history.