Ancient, Celtic, British and World Coins, Historical and Art Medals

Elizabeth I (1558-1603), Fifth issue, Sixpence, 1594, mm. woolpack, 3.13gms (N 2015; S 2578A). Private mark ‘MSA’ stamped in obverse field, otherwise about very fine, toned (£30-50)

The mark, stamped in the manner of a hallmark, is probably that of an eccentric individual or private collector and is certainly not a recent disfigurement. Other examples of hammered (and milled) coins defaced in such a way are occasionally met with in commerce