AR Three-Pence

Struck: 1569
Mint: Tower Mint
Size: 19mm
Weight: 1.26g
Die Axis: 45°
Grade: aVF
Ref: S2566

Obv: ELIZABETH D G ANG FR ET HIB REGINA; coronet mint mark. Crowned bust left with rose behind.
Rev: POSUI DEU ADIUTOREM MEU. Shield over long cross with date above.
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Elizabeth I, born September 7, 1533, was queen regent of England and Ireland from November 17, 1558 until her death in in 1603. Elizabeth was the last monarch of the house of Tudor and is considered among the greatest of the English monarchs.

Elizabeth ruled by good counsel and surrounded herself by trusted and politically astute advisors. In government she was more moderate than her father Henry VIII and relatively tolerant in regards to religion, generally avoiding persecution. Her reign is marked by widespread increase in literacy and great achievements in the arts. Legendary poets and playrights emerged during her era such as Shakespeare, Marlowe and Raleigh. Scientific thinking of the renaissance was also encouraged during her reign.

Elizabeth oversaw the defeat of the Spanish Armada with the English forces under Sir Francis Drake. She gave her most famous speech while inspecting the troops during this crisis adorned in a white velvet dress and a silver breastplate. She was genuinely loved by her subjects.

In March of 1603 Elizabeth fell ill and died on the 24th at Richmond Palace. Her long reign of 44 years brought long needed stability to the Kingdom and helped forge a sense of national identity.