AN Edward III gold Noble coin is being sold at a Dorset auction later this month. 

About 680 years old (circa 1344 to 1346), the coin was minted in the reign of King Edward III, although it is a mystery quite how it came into the widow’s late husband's study who lived on the Somerset/Devon border.  

The Noble was the first English coin produced in numbers. It was valued at a not inconsiderable six shillings and eight pence, which was roughly equivalent to 80 old pence or one third of a pound sterling. 

Today, they are rare to find, sought after and highly prized by collectors.  

“This ancient gold coin was found by the widow of the late owner in his study whilst she was having a sort out and a tidy up,” said auctioneer Richard Bromell. 

“Having found the coin, and various other items, she phoned us to ask for a home visit, help and advice.” 

The coin is estimated to sell for £2,000-3,000, and is included in the Charterhouse specialist coin, medal, militaria and stamp auction at their Sherborne salerooms on Thursday, November 28. 

Richard Bromell and the Charterhouse team can be contacted for home visits, advice and valuations on coins, medals, militaria and other collector’s items at The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, 01935 812277 or via rb@charterhouse-auction.com.