Angel (coin)

The Angel was an English gold coin introduced by King Edward IV in 1465. It superseded the noble as the principal gold coin of the realm. Its value when introduced was 6 shillings and 8 pence (one-third of a pound), but its value fluctuated over time. The coin derives its name from its depiction of the Archangel Michael slaying a dragon, a common motif on coins of the period.

The angel remained in production throughout the reigns of the Tudor monarchs, and continued to be issued during the early years of the Stuart dynasty. Changes in the weight and fineness of the gold used occurred periodically, influencing the coin's value. Over time, its value increased, eventually reaching 10 shillings during the reign of James I.

The angel served not only as a circulating coin but also as a popular touch piece. It was believed to possess healing properties, and individuals afflicted with the King's Evil (scrofula) would often seek out the monarch to be touched with an angel, a practice that continued for many years. The last angels were struck under Charles I. Following the English Civil War, the angel was discontinued in favor of new coin designs.

The angel is considered a highly collectible coin today, valued for its historical significance and intrinsic gold content. Its depiction of Saint Michael makes it a visually appealing coin, prized by numismatists and historians alike.