(1659) Lord Baltimore Maryland Shilling

Coin Details

Description

As the highest denomination in the Maryland colonial series, the Lord Baltimore Shilling exists in two documented varieties: the Large Bust (Hodder 1-A, cataloged as W-1080) and the Small Bust (Hodder 2-B, cataloged as W-1090), with additional Breen references 64-67. The Large Bust variety, rated Rarity-6, is the more commonly encountered of the two, while the Small Bust is known by only two examples in silver — an extraordinary rarity within an already rare series. The obverse of both varieties depicts Cecil Calvert, second Baron Baltimore and Proprietor of Maryland, facing left, while the reverse displays the Baltimore family coat of arms quartered with the Crossland arms, accompanied by the Roman numeral XII indicating the shilling denomination (twelve pence). Authorized under the proprietary charter granted by King Charles I, the Maryland coinage was struck in London around 1659, likely at the Royal Mint or by a private contractor, making it one of the most significant colonial American coin series. Most surviving shillings are in poor condition, frequently encountered holed and plugged from centuries of use as jewelry or personal adornment — a common fate for colonial silver coins that were valued as much for their metal content and ornamental potential as for their monetary function. Despite being the largest denomination in the series, the shilling is scarce in all conditions, and examples with original surfaces free from jewelry damage command substantial premiums at auction.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. Two varieties: Large Bust (Hodder 1-A, Rarity-6) and Small Bust (Hodder 2-B, only 2 known in silver). Most survivors are damaged from jewelry use.

Cross References

Hodder 1-A/W-1080 (Large Bust), Hodder 2-B/W-1090 (Small Bust), Breen 64-67