1 Shilling - James II 1685-1688 front 1 Shilling - James II 1685-1688 back
1 Shilling - James II 1685-1688 photo
© Heritage Auctions

1 Shilling - James II

 
Silver (.925) 6.0 g 25 mm
Description
Issuer
England (United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies)
King
James II (1685-1688)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1685-1688
Value
1 Shilling (1⁄20)
Currency
Pound sterling (1158-1970)
Composition
Silver (.925)
Weight
6.0 g
Diameter
25 mm
Shape
Round
Technique
Milled
Orientation
Coin alignment ↑↓
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-08
References
Numista
N#12953
Rarity index
83%

Reverse

Crowned cruciform shields around central Garter star, divided date above, legend around.

Script: Latin

Lettering: MAG· BR·FRA· ET·HIB REX·16 85·

Translation: King of Great Britain France and Ireland.

Engraver: John Roettier

Comment

The standard weight of this coin was 6/31 troy ounce or 92.9 grains.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the 1 Shilling coin from James II's reign is that it was part of a series of coins that were issued with a new design, featuring a more mature portrait of the king, as well as a new reverse design that included a shield with the arms of England, Scotland, and Ireland. This design change was significant because it marked a departure from the traditional coinage designs that had been used for centuries, and it helped to modernize the currency of England during James II's reign.