Expert: Dmitry Livshits - 8/31/2009

Question
Hello we are interested to know the value of a coin in our possession. Through the internet we have found it to be the subject coin the markings on the portrait side are "FRID.IIII.DEI.GRAT" on the crown side it is marked "DAN.NOR.VAN.GOT.REX" with "8-S" either side of the crown "D.M.A" beneath if and the year 1707 below. It is quite worn round the edge but all the features and wording are clear. Hope this is enough information many thanks for your time.

Regards

G. Boardman

Answer
Hi Gavin,
Great timing, since I've sold one of these exact coins quite recently (with a 1711 date).
This is an early Norwegian 8 skilling (made of .750 silver). You mentioned it's worn around the edges, this may not necessarily be a problem. These coin were often weakly struck, and lack of detail may not be wear at all.
If you look at the example I just sold:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=230364891249

This one has barely any visible bust detail, and yet it would grade as an almost uncirculated coin.

The book values range from $10 for one with a good amount of actual wear, up to $85 for one in top shape. Needless to say, the book values are conservative. I cannot imagine your coin, even with a good amount of wear, selling for any less than $50 in the lowest listed grade.

Thanks for the question! =)

RE: How the coin wound up in Doncaster.

Back in those days, many foreign silver and gold coins circulated in England and other nations. They were simply evaluated by bullion value. It's the same reason people often dig up English, Portuguese, Spanish, French, etc. coins here in the US and other places.
It's entirely possible and likely that this coin was lost right from circulation in your area.
Thanks again! =)