© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
½ Guinea - Charles II 2nd bust
| Gold (.917) | 4.19 g | 21 mm |
| Issuer | England (United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies) |
|---|---|
| King | Charles II (1660-1685) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1672-1684 |
| Value | ½ Guinea |
| Currency | Pound sterling (1158-1970) |
| Composition | Gold (.917) |
| Weight | 4.19 g |
| Diameter | 21 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#177020 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Crowned cruciform shields around interlinked C's with sceptres bearing national emblems in angles, divided date above, legend around.
Script: Latin
Lettering: MAG· BR·FRA· ET·HIB· REX·16 84·
Translation: King of Great Britain France and Ireland
Comment
These coins were struck at 89 to the pound troy, giving a standard weight of 12/89 troy ounce (64.7 grains).Obverse die varieties:
Sp#3448, KM#449.1 (1672-84) 2nd laureate bust, rounded truncation.
Sp#3449, KM#449.2 (1672-84) 2nd laureate bust, elephant and castle below
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the ½ Guinea coin is that it was used as a means of payment for the British East India Company, which played a significant role in the development of the British Empire. The coin's value was equivalent to half a guinea, a unit of currency used in the British Isles during that time. The coin's design features an image of King Charles II on one side and a crowned shield on the other, symbolizing the power and authority of the British monarchy.
