5 Guineas - James II (2nd bust) 1687-1688 front 5 Guineas - James II (2nd bust) 1687-1688 back
5 Guineas - James II (2nd bust) 1687-1688 photo
© Heritage Auctions

5 Guineas - James II 2nd bust

 
Gold (.917) 41.94 g 37 mm
Description
Issuer
England (United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies)
King
James II (1685-1688)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1687-1688
Value
5 Guineas
Currency
Pound sterling (1158-1970)
Composition
Gold (.917)
Weight
41.94 g
Diameter
37 mm
Shape
Round
Technique
Milled
Orientation
Coin alignment ↑↓
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-08
References
Numista
N#95655
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

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

Script: Latin

Lettering: MAG· BR·FRA· ET·HIB REX·16 88·

Translation: King of Great Britain France and Ireland

Engraver: John Roettier

Edge

Regnal year in Latin

Lettering: QVARTO

Translation: Fourth

Comment

Krause does not recognize this second laureate bust type.

The five guineas was struck at 8 9/10 to the pound troy, giving a standard weight of 1 31/89 troy ounce (647.2 grains).

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the 5 Guineas - James II (2nd bust) coin is that it was issued 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 led to his overthrow and the ascension of William III and Mary II to the throne. Despite these events, the coin remains a valuable and sought-after collector's item due to its rarity and historical significance.