Plack (coin)

A plack was a type of broad silver coin widely used in Scotland and the Low Countries during the 15th-17th centuries. The name is derived from the Dutch word "plakke," meaning a plate or sheet.

In Scotland, the plack was first issued during the reign of James III in 1483. It was initially valued at four pennies Scots, half a groat. Over time, its silver content was debased, leading to a decline in value. By the reign of Mary, Queen of Scots, its value had fallen to eight pennies Scots, and during the reign of James VI, even further devaluation occurred.

The plack was a relatively thin and broad coin, typically featuring the Scottish royal arms on one side and a cross or other design on the reverse. Due to its low intrinsic value and association with devaluation, the term "plack" eventually became associated with something worthless or of little value. The plack ceased to be a common currency in Scotland during the monetary reforms of the 17th century.

Similar coins, also called placks or plakken, existed in various regions of the Low Countries (present-day Netherlands, Belgium, and surrounding areas) during the same period. These coins similarly served as a smaller denomination of silver currency. Like the Scottish plack, the value and design could vary depending on the issuing authority. The Dutch plakk was generally considered a small silver coin.