Description
William III (1649-1702), Shilling, 1696, Bristol mint, first draped bust right with B below truncation, small X in REX variety, toothed border both sides, legend surrounds from bottom left GVLIELMVS III DEI GRA. Rev, crowned cruciform shields, five strings to Irish harp, Lion of Nassau at centre within cartouche surrounded by nine distinct lozenges, reads MAG BR FRA ET HIB REX, date flanking top crown, edge obliquely milled (S.3498; Bull.1159; ESC -).
Rich lustrous light grey toning, mirrored and reflective around the periphery, some light haymarking. Executed with highly polished and fresh dies, self-evident in the detail and depth to all areas of the coin. Only one area of striking weakness below bust, also reflected on the reverse, possible a die shift. Much as struck, uncirculated, rare so well preserved with a scarce variety.
Ex. Dr Burstal, SCMB, August 1957, DB393 – with a ticket in his hand and B. A. Seaby envelope
reverse of ticket marked ‘Fol. 37 – Seaby – 10/6’
