Currencies/British angel
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Introduction
The Angel was a gold coin issued in England, first introduced under Edward IV in 1465. Its name and design were derived from the French “angelot” coin. The Angel became one of the most recognizable English gold issues of the late medieval and early modern period.
History
The Angel replaced the earlier noble and was valued initially at 6 shillings and 8 pence. Its value changed multiple times, rising to 7s 6d, then 8s, and later 10s by the mid-16th century. Under James I it briefly reached 11s before returning to 10s. The coin continued to be struck until the reign of Charles I in 1642, after which it was replaced by newer issues such as the guinea.
Coins
The Angel was struck in gold and featured the Archangel Michael slaying a dragon on the obverse. The reverse showed a ship with rays of the sun and the royal arms or cross. The legends varied between reigns and included Latin mottos such as “By Thy Cross save us, Christ Redeemer,” “This was done by the Lord,” and “The love of the people is the protection of the king.”
Currency
1 Angel = 6 shillings 8 pence → 7s 6d → 8s → 10s → 11s → 10s
Legacy
The Angel was more than a coin: it was used in the royal ceremony of “touching for the king’s evil,” where monarchs gave Angels as “touch pieces” believed to heal disease. It symbolized power, protection, and divine favor. Its fame endured in English culture, with many inns and public houses adopting the name “The Angel.”