Henry V1 groat

A Short History of Henry VI with Reference to the Annulet Issue Groat (Calais Mint, S.1836)

Henry VI of England (1421–1471) came to the throne as an infant following the death of his father, Henry V, in 1422. His long reign was marked by political instability, military decline in the Hundred Years’ War, and the eruption of the Wars of the Roses—a dynastic struggle that would ultimately cost him his life.

The coin pictured, a silver groat from the Annulet issue (c. 1422–1430), was minted at Calais, an English possession in France at the time. Weighing 3.72g, it features a crowned, youthful portrait of Henry VI, symbolic of his ascension to the throne as a baby king. The fleur-de-lis in the crown and the annulets flanking the bust are key distinguishing features of this issue. The inscription names him as king of England and France, reflecting England’s lingering claim to the French throne.

This groat was produced during Henry’s minority, when the kingdom was governed by regents. Despite his early promise, Henry’s reign would unravel due to weak leadership, noble factionalism, and the loss of English territories in France. Eventually deposed twice by Edward IV, Henry was imprisoned and died under mysterious circumstances in the Tower of London in 1471.

This coin is not only a striking example of medieval craftsmanship but also a tangible artifact from the early and most stable years of Henry VI’s troubled reign. Its survival offers collectors and historians alike a window into a pivotal and turbulent period of English history. £185 postage free viaroyal mail special delivery