The 1343 Edward III Florin: The 1343 Edward III Florin, also known as the “Double Leopard,” is one of the most legendary and valuable coins in British history. Minted during the reign of Edward III, this gold coin represents a fascinating chapter in medieval numismatics. Its exquisite design, historical significance, and extreme rarity make it a symbol of England’s medieval golden age.
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| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | 1343 Edward III Florin (“Double Leopard”) |
| Denomination | Six Shillings |
| Monarch | King Edward III (Reign: 1327–1377) |
| Historical Context | Introduced in 1343 as part of Edward III’s effort to establish a stable gold currency, inspired by European coinage. Withdrawn within months due to impractical value. |
| Design Features | – Obverse: King Edward III seated on a throne, flanked by leopards, holding a sword and scepter (symbolizing power and divine rule). – Reverse: Cross with a central floral design, surrounded by leopards’ heads, representing the monarchy’s strength. |
| Rarity | Only three known examples exist: two in the British Museum, one in private ownership. |
| Auction Record | 2006: Sold for £460,000 (~$850,000 at the time). Estimated to be worth millions today. |
| Significance | One of the rarest and most valuable British coins, symbolizing England’s medieval economic ambitions and Edward III’s vision of power. |
| Legacy | Though short-lived, the florin remains an important artifact in numismatic history, showcasing medieval craftsmanship and England’s evolving monetary system. |
Table of Contents
A Short History of the Edward III Florin
Edward III’s reign (1327–1377) was marked by military conquests, economic development, and a growing sense of national identity. In 1343, Edward sought to establish a stable gold currency in England, inspired by the flourishing gold coinage of European states like France and Italy. The florin, valued at six shillings, was introduced as part of this effort. However, the coin’s value quickly proved impractical compared to existing currencies, leading to its withdrawal within months of its issue.
Design and Symbolism
The Edward III Florin is a masterpiece of medieval coinage. Its obverse (front) features a stunning depiction of King Edward III seated on a throne in full regalia, flanked by leopards—symbols of strength and royal power. He holds a sword and scepter, representing his military prowess and divine right to rule.
The reverse (back) showcases a cross with a central floral design, encircled by leopards’ heads at each quadrant, reflecting the coin’s association with the English monarchy and its territorial ambitions. The intricate detailing of the coin’s design sets it apart from other medieval coins of its time.
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Rarity and Value
The rarity of the Edward III Florin cannot be overstated. Only three known examples exist today, with two housed in the British Museum and the third in a private collection. Its extreme rarity, combined with its historical importance, makes it one of the most valuable coins in the world.
In 2006, one of the surviving florins was sold at auction for an astonishing £460,000 (approximately $850,000 at the time). Since then, its estimated value has continued to rise, with experts suggesting it could fetch millions of pounds if it were ever auctioned again.
The Legacy of the Edward III Florin
Although the 1343 florin had a short-lived circulation, its legacy endures as a symbol of medieval England’s ambitions and evolving monetary system. It reflects Edward III’s vision of establishing England as a dominant power in Europe, both militarily and economically.
Today, the Edward III Florin stands as a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of medieval minting. For historians and collectors, it offers a rare glimpse into a transformative period in England’s history—a time when kings sought to solidify their power not only on the battlefield but also through the currency that carried their image across the land.
