1699 William III Silver Pattern Farthing

1699 William III Silver Pattern Farthing

A Rare Glimpse Into a Transitional Era of English Coinage

The 1699 William III Silver Pattern Farthing is an exquisite and rare pre-production piece, representing the experimental designs and minting techniques of the late 17th century. Issued during the reign of King William III (1694–1702, following the joint reign with Queen Mary II), this pattern farthing reflects a moment of transformation in English coinage—moving towards greater consistency, precision, and artistry.

🔹 Historical Background

By the end of the 17th century, the English Mint was undergoing major changes, especially in its approach to small denomination coinage like the farthing. There had been long-standing issues with counterfeiting and public distrust of copper coins, prompting the development of various pattern pieces—trial coins that explored new designs, metals, and minting techniques.

The silver pattern farthings of 1699 were never released for general circulation but were struck in very limited numbers for evaluation purposes. Their production demonstrates a refinement in design, an interest in public trust, and innovation in coinage materials.

🔸 Design Features

Obverse:

• Features a laureate bust of King William III facing right, in high relief and sharply detailed.

• The inscription reads:
  “"GVLIELMVS TERTIVS," translates to "William the Third" in Latin

Reverse:

• Depicts Britannia seated left, holding a spear and olive branch, with a shield at her side—an enduring symbol of British strength and peace.

• The legend reads:
  “BRITANNIA 1699”

This classical and balanced design reflects the influence of earlier Roman-inspired motifs used under Charles II and continues the elegance associated with Britannia on coinage.

🔹 Specifications:

• Type: Pattern Farthing

• Date: 1699

• Metal: Silver (as opposed to the copper of regular issue farthings)

• Weight: Approximately 6.0 grams

• Diameter: Around 22–23 mm

• Strike Method: Milled

• Rarity: Extremely Rare – very limited examples known to exist

• Condition-Good Very Fine

🔸 Collectibility and Value

• As a pattern coin, the 1699 Silver Farthing was never intended for public use—making it exceedingly rare and highly sought after by advanced collectors of British coins.

• Its rarity, artistic quality, and historical context (post-Glorious Revolution, pre-Union with Scotland) elevate it as a premier numismatic artifact.

• Examples with sharp strikes and minimal handling are especially prized.

🏛️ Why This Coin Matters

The 1699 William III Silver Pattern Farthing is more than just a coin—it's a prototype of change. It represents the British monarchy’s attempt to modernize its currency system and restore public faith in small denomination coinage during a politically charged and economically sensitive era.

For collectors of patterns, early milled coinage, or Williamite era material, this coin stands as a true gem of British numismatics.