Irish Penny

Irish Penny

Copper Alloy
Origin: London, England, 1601-1602
Context: James Fort

Minted in London under Queen Elizabeth I, these coins provided Ireland with small coinage while keeping silver in England. The devalued, non-precious currency was rejected by the people of Ireland. Did these artifacts come to Virginia in the pockets of individuals who had seen military service there? Hundreds of these pennies have been recovered at Jamestown, more than anywhere else.

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