William III Sixpence 1694-1702

The William III silver sixpence, minted between 1695 and 1697, is a historically rich coin from a transformative period in British history. It was issued during the reign of William III, who ruled jointly with Mary II until her death in 1694, and then alone until 1702.

Key Features

Obverse (Front)

• Portrait: Laureate and draped bust of King William III facing right.
• Inscription:
  GVLIELMVS·III·DEI·GRA·
  (Latin for "William III, by the Grace of God")
• Engraver: James Roettier.

Reverse (Back)

• Design: Crowned cruciform shields representing England, Scotland, France (claimed), and Ireland, with a central lion rampant.
• Date: Split across the top and bottom of the reverse.
• Inscription:
  MAG·BR·FRA·ET·HIB·REX
  (Latin for "King of Great Britain, France and Ireland")
• Engraver: John Roettier.

Specifications

• Metal: Sterling silver (.925)
• Weight: Approx. 3.0 grams
• Diameter: 21 mm
• Edge: Milled
• Mint Locations: Bristol, Chester, Exeter, Norwich, York (mintmarks below bust).

Historical Context

The coin was part of the Great Recoinage of 1696, a major effort to restore the integrity of England’s silver currency, which had been heavily clipped and debased. William III’s coinage symbolized a more centralized and modern monetary system.

The sixpence was worth 1/40 of a pound sterling, and was commonly used in everyday transactions. It also carried symbolic weight, reinforcing William’s authority over a unified kingdom during a time of political consolidation and economic reform.

Varieties

There are numerous varieties of the William III sixpence, distinguished by:

• Mintmarks (e.g., B for Bristol, C for Chester)
• Crown sizes (large or small)
• Harp styles (early or late) These variations are of particular interest to collectors and can affect the coin’s value

William reigned alone after Mary died in December 1694 of small pox. These sixpences are part of the recoinage and would make a handsome edition to your collection despite William's hooked nose!

Coins are in fine to VF condition.