2 Pence - James II (incl. Maundy) 1686-1688 front 2 Pence - James II (incl. Maundy) 1686-1688 back
2 Pence - James II (incl. Maundy) 1686-1688 photo
© dougplasencia

2 Pence - James II incl. Maundy

 
Silver (.925) 1.0 g 14 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
2 Pence (1⁄120)
Currency
Pound sterling (1158-1970)
Composition
Silver (.925)
Weight
1.0 g
Diameter
14 mm
Shape
Round
Technique
Milled
Orientation
Coin alignment ↑↓
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-08
References
Numista
N#12947
Rarity index
73%

Reverse

Crown over denomination dividing date, legend around.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
MAG·BR·FRA·ET·HIB·REX·16 86·
II

Translation: King of Great Britain France and Ireland

Engraver: John Roettier

Comment

The standard weight of this coin was 1/31 troy ounce or 15.5 grains.

Before the Great Recoinage of 1817, there is no known evidence to suggest that separate 'prooflike' strikes were issued for the Maundy ceremony, suggesting that the money handed out was identical to the current circulating coinage.

Sp#3418 Maundy money sets listed with their KM# ref:

1686 MDS22 1687 MDS23 1688 MDS24

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the 2 Pence coin from James II's reign is that it was minted with a unique design that features a crowned shield on the obverse (front) side, and a cross on the reverse (back) side. This design was specifically chosen to symbolize the king's authority and power, and it was only used on coins minted during his reign. Additionally, the coin's silver content and weight were carefully regulated to ensure its value and authenticity, making it a valuable collector's item for numismatists today.