Great Britain. Ryal, ND. S.1951; Fr-132. Edward IV, 1461-1485. 7.58 g. London. Mint mark, Long cross fitchee. Obverse; With king facing, in ship holding sword and ornamental shield. Superb portrait, and practically as struck, on a full flan. PCGS graded Uncirculated Detail (Tooled). Estimated Value $5,500 - 6,500
*The Ryal or Rose Noble was introduced in 1465 - early in the reign of Edward IV - and weighed 120 grains, with a nominal value of ten shillings. Edward had many titles: King of England and France, Earl of March (from birth) Duke of York, Earl of Ulster, and Earl of Cambridge (from 1460). Edward IV was the first king of the House of York, although like his predecessor Henry VI, he was a Plantagenet. When he was only 18, Edward was able to rally support along with his cousin, Richard Neville (Earl of Warwick) and he successfully invaded London. He was declared king of England on 4th March 1461, and just over 3 weeks later decisively defeated the forces of Henry VI at Towton, in probably the bloodiest battle fought on English soil.