The great lottery.This is an advertisement for England's first ever National Lottery. It was issued in 1567 by Queen Elizabeth I. At this time England was seeking to expand its export markets around the world. The lottery was intended to raise money for the enormous costs of building ships and developing ports. Tickets cost ten shillings each - far too much for the ordinary citizen to afford. The first prize was an amazing 拢5000; which was paid partly in 鈥榬eady money' and partly in plate; tapestries and 鈥榞ood linen cloth'. To encourage as many people as possible to buy tickets; all ticket holders were promised freedom from arrest for all crimes other than murder; felonies; piracy or treason.London: H. Bynneman; 1567 [Old Style] 1568.From: A very rich Lotterie generall. towardes the reparation of the Hauens; etc. [A Proclamation giving a list of the prizes. 1-2? Jan. 1568.] In: A Booke containing all such Proclamations; as were published during the Raigne of the late Queene Elizabeth. Collected together by the industry of H. Dyson. B.L.G. 6463. (99)London; British Library.