1685 James II Gold Guinea

James II Gold Guinea (1685–1688)

The gold guinea of James II was struck during his short reign from 1685 to 1688 and is a notable example of late 17th-century English coinage.

Key Features:

• Monarch: King James II of England, Scotland, and Ireland

• Denomination: Guinea (valued originally at 20 shillings, later fluctuating with gold content)

• Metal: Gold (approximately 22 carats / 0.916–0.917 fine)

• Weight: Around 8.25 grams, though slightly variable depending on the issue

• Diameter: ~30 mm

• Condition-Fine

Design:

• Obverse: Features a right-facing bust of King James II, typically crowned and wearing a cuirass, surrounded by the Latin legend:
  “IACOBUS II DEI GRATIA” (“James II by the grace of God”).

• Reverse: Shows the cruciform shields of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, separated by sceptres or lions, with a central rose or crown motif. The legend usually reads:
  “MAG BR FRA ET HIB REX” (“King of Great Britain, France, and Ireland”).

Historical Significance:

• This coin was issued during a turbulent period in English history, including the Monmouth Rebellion (1685) and the lead-up to the Glorious Revolution (1688).

• Gold guineas of James II are prized by collectors for their historical context, fine gold content, and elegant design.

• The value today depends heavily on condition (grade), rarity of the specific issue/mint mark, and historical demand, with well-preserved examples commanding significant interest.

Collecting Notes:

• Early guineas, especially those from James II’s brief reign, are often slightly irregular in strike due to the minting techniques of the time.

• Authentication and careful grading are recommended, as contemporary forgeries exist.

• These coins are considered investment-quality gold as well as historical collectibles.