1 Guinea - James II (2nd bust) 1686-1688 front 1 Guinea - James II (2nd bust) 1686-1688 back
1 Guinea - James II (2nd bust) 1686-1688 photo
© Heritage Auctions

1 Guinea - James II 2nd bust

 
Gold (.917) 8.39 g 26 mm
Description
Issuer
England (United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies)
King
James II (1685-1688)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1686-1688
Value
1 Guinea (43⁄40)
Currency
Pound sterling (1158-1970)
Composition
Gold (.917)
Weight
8.39 g
Diameter
26 mm
Shape
Round
Technique
Milled
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-08
References
Numista
N#53615
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Crowned cruciform shields of arms with sceptres bearing national emblems in angles, divided date above, legend around.

Script: Latin

Lettering: MAG· BR·FRA· ET·HIB· REX·16 87·

Translation: King of Great Britain France and Ireland

Engraver: John Roettier

Edge

Milled

Comment

These coins were struck at 44½ to the pound troy, giving a standard weight of 24/89 troy ounce (129.4 grains).

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the 1 Guinea - James II (2nd bust) 1686-1688 coin is that it was minted during a time of great turmoil in England. James II was the last Catholic monarch to rule England, and his reign was marked by conflicts with Parliament and the Glorious Revolution of 1688, which saw him overthrown and replaced by William III and Mary II. Despite these tumultuous times, the coin remains a valuable and sought-after collector's item, with its gold content and historical significance making it a prized addition to any collection.