An Unusual Counterfeit Base Shilling of Edward VI – Gary Oddie

This short note describes an unusual counterfeit base shilling of Edward VI, overstruck using false dies, on a French Gros de Nesle of 1550. The metal content has been analysed and the numbers do not add up. Reusing readymade base coins as blanks for a counterfeit certainly has its merits, but not when making a loss on the silver. The false dies are well made, but contain legends not seen on other genuine coins or contemporary counterfeits. All suggestions gratefully received via this blog.