Dimensions: height 185 mm, width 133 mm
Copyright: Rijks Museum: Open Domain
These six old English coins, numbered VII through XII, are presented in an anonymous print. The coins reflect a pivotal era of shifting power, religious reformation, and nascent global exploration. Each coin is a microcosm of its time. The inscriptions and emblems reflect the changing faces of the monarchy, from Edward to Elizabeth, alongside symbols of national identity and religious authority. Note the ships, emblems of England's burgeoning maritime power, embarking on voyages that would reshape the world. The coins featuring Elizabeth are particularly resonant. As a female ruler in a patriarchal society, her image on currency was not merely a symbol of power, but a statement of legitimacy and defiance. They challenge traditional representation by presenting a female figure as the head of state. These aren't just currency; they’re testaments to the complex interplay of gender, power, and national identity. They offer a window into the hopes, fears, and ambitions of a nation on the cusp of profound change.
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