`Rider' (James VI)
Issuer
King James VI and I
(Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh, Scotland, 1566 - 1625)
Date1598
Object NameRider
Mediumgold
ClassificationsCoins
Dimensions29 x 0.5mm, 5gm
AcquisitionPurchased in 1994 with assistance from the National Fund for Acquisitions.
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS027502
About MeJames VI's gold coins shows intricate detail of the equestrian portrait on the 'rider' (£5 piece) of 1598.From an economic point of view the issue of these coins has rather less to commend it since they were struck from recalled old money reissued at a higher value. Such a policy inevitably caused prices to rise with consequent hardship.
The crowned-shield design on the reverse of the gold rider could well be described as traditional by James VI's reign since it had been in use since the beginning of the Scottish gold coinage in the 14th century.
The inscription reads SPERO MELIORA 'I hope for better things'. The ambitious James made no secret of his desire to accede to the throne of England on the death of Elizabeth I. His ambition was fulfilled in 1603 when the Kingdoms of Scotland and England were united.
