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for Half-unicorn (James IV)
Half-unicorn (James IV)
Issuer
King James IV of Scotland
(Stirling Castle, Stirling, Scotland, 1473 - 1513)
Date1488 - c. 1500
Object NameHalf Unicorn
Mediumgold
ClassificationsCoins
DimensionsOverall: Diameter: 20 mm
Max.: Thickness: 0.5 mm
Weight: Weight: 1.89 gm
Max.: Thickness: 0.5 mm
Weight: Weight: 1.89 gm
AcquisitionPurchased in 1989 with assistance from the National Fund for Acquisitions.
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS017107
About MeThe unicorn of 18 shillings (Scots) value was introduced by James III and continued by James IV. It takes its name from the fabulous one-horned horse-like creature supporting the shield on the obverse of the coin. Under James IV half-unicorns of nine shillings' value were struck also.This fine specimen of a half-unicorn is a stray find from Lickleyhead Castle, Premnay, Aberdeenshire.
