Coins featuring angels in the design have long been popular among collectors, thanks to the beauty, symbolism, and historical significance of these heavenly motifs. Among angel coins, pieces that depict these winged figures on both the obverse and reverse sides are especially prized for their rarity and spiritual aura. In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll delve into the intriguing world of double-sided angel coins, exploring their history, cultural importance, collectibility, and investment potential.
The Divine Messengers: Cultural and Spiritual Significance of Angels on Coins
For millennia, angels have captured the human imagination as intermediaries between the earthly and celestial realms. Believed to be divine messengers and protectors, angels feature prominently in the artwork and symbolism of many faiths, including Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. It‘s no surprise, then, that these ethereal beings have also found their way onto coins throughout history.
As numismatic expert Dr. Paul Johnson explains, "Angels on coins serve as powerful reminders of divine presence and protection. By carrying these coins, people felt a tangible connection to the spiritual world and a sense of heavenly guidance in their daily lives."
The practice of depicting angels on coins dates back to ancient times, with some of the earliest known examples being Byzantine coins featuring the Archangel Michael. However, it was during the medieval and early modern periods in Europe that angel coinage reached its zenith, with many royal mints issuing gold and silver coins showcasing these celestial figures.
Angels as Healers and Protectors
One fascinating aspect of angel coins is their historical association with healing and warding off evil. In medieval Europe, certain angel coins were believed to possess curative powers, particularly against the dreaded "king‘s evil" or scrofula, a type of tuberculosis that caused swelling of the lymph nodes.
As Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a historian specializing in medieval medicine, notes, "Angel coins were often touched to the affected areas or worn as talismans to invoke divine intervention against disease. The image of the angel was thought to channel God‘s healing power and protect the afflicted."
This belief in the protective qualities of angel coins extended beyond physical health. Many people carried these coins as good luck charms, hoping the angelic presence would shield them from misfortune, accidents, and spiritual malevolence. The practice of gifting angel coins for weddings, christenings, and other religious occasions was also common, as a way of bestowing blessings and divine favor upon the recipients.
Notable Examples of Double-Sided Angel Coins
While angel motifs have appeared on countless coins over the centuries, those featuring angels on both the obverse and reverse are relatively uncommon. Here are some of the most significant and sought-after examples:
The English Gold Angel (1485-1642)
Perhaps the most iconic double-sided angel coin is the English Gold Angel, first minted during the reign of Henry VII (1485-1509). The obverse features a depiction of the Archangel Michael slaying a dragon, while the reverse shows a ship bearing the royal arms and a cross. These coins were struck in high-purity gold (23 karats or higher) and weighed between 64.5 and 80 grains (4.18-5.18 grams).
The Gold Angel became a staple of English coinage, with subsequent monarchs continuing the design with slight variations. Notable examples include the Angels of Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, and James I. The coin was also famous for its inscription, "REDEMPT. MIHI CAUSA" ("Cause of my redemption"), a reference to the belief in the coin‘s healing powers.
French Silver Angelot (1640s)
During the reign of Louis XIV, the Paris Mint issued a series of silver coins known as Angelots. These coins featured winged cherubs on both sides, surrounded by floral and ornamental motifs. The Angelot was minted in denominations of 1/12, 1/6, and 1/4 écu, with the largest coin measuring approximately 31mm in diameter.
Knights of Malta Gold and Silver Coins (1700s)
The Knights of Malta, a Catholic military order, issued a range of gold and silver coins featuring angels throughout the 18th century. These coins often depicted the Archangel Michael or Gabriel on the obverse, with the reverse showing the order‘s coat of arms or a cross. The gold coins, known as Zecchini, were struck in denominations of 1, 2, and 4 pieces, while the silver coins, called Scudi, came in denominations of 1, 2, and 4 Tari.
Grading and Valuing Double-Sided Angel Coins
As with any collectible coin, the value of a double-sided angel coin depends on factors such as rarity, historical significance, condition, and precious metal content. Grading is a crucial aspect of determining a coin‘s worth, and angel coins are evaluated using the internationally recognized Sheldon grading scale.
The Sheldon scale assigns coins a grade from 1 to 70 based on their condition, with 70 being a perfect "mint state" coin. Due to their age and the fact that most angel coins circulated as currency, it‘s extremely rare to find examples graded above MS-60. More commonly, angel coins fall into the VF (Very Fine) to AU (About Uncirculated) range, exhibiting varying degrees of wear and surface marks.
Here are some recent auction results for notable double-sided angel coins:
| Coin | Grade | Auction Price |
|---|---|---|
| Henry VII Gold Angel (1505-1509) | AU-53 | $85,000 |
| James I Gold Angel (1605-1606) | MS-62 | $150,000 |
| French Silver Angelot (1644) | VF-30 | $3,500 |
| Knights of Malta Gold 2 Zecchini (1754) | AU-55 | $12,000 |
Data sourced from major auction houses and numismatic publications.
As these results demonstrate, high-grade examples of rare double-sided angel coins can fetch substantial sums at auction. However, even lower-grade specimens can command significant prices due to their historical importance and collector demand.
Collecting Strategies and Investment Potential
For those interested in starting a collection of double-sided angel coins, it‘s essential to do thorough research and work with reputable dealers. As with any high-value collectible, counterfeit angel coins are not uncommon, so it‘s crucial to purchase from trusted sources that provide certificates of authenticity and stand behind their products.
When building a collection, consider focusing on a specific historical period, issuing authority, or design type. For example, some collectors specialize in English Gold Angels, seeking to acquire examples from each monarch who issued them. Others may focus on angel coins from a particular region, such as Italy or France.
As an investment, double-sided angel coins have shown strong potential for appreciation over time. "High-quality angel coins have consistently performed well at auction, with rare examples achieving record prices," notes numismatic investment expert Peter Green. "As with any collectible, angel coins should be viewed as a long-term hold, with the understanding that their value can fluctuate based on market conditions and collector demand."
To maximize the investment potential of angel coins, collectors should prioritize rarity, condition, and historical significance when making purchases. Coins with documented provenance or those that have been certified by respected third-party grading services like NGC or PCGS can also command higher premiums.
Conclusion
Double-sided angel coins represent a fascinating and highly collectible segment of numismatic history. These beautiful pieces not only showcase the artistry and symbolism of their time but also serve as tangible reminders of the enduring human fascination with the divine.
For collectors and investors alike, these coins offer the opportunity to own a piece of history imbued with spiritual significance. By understanding the cultural context, grading standards, and market dynamics surrounding these coins, enthusiasts can build meaningful collections that have the potential to appreciate in value over time.
Whether you‘re drawn to the historical importance, religious symbolism, or sheer beauty of double-sided angel coins, these heavenly pieces are sure to add a unique and captivating dimension to any numismatic portfolio.
