$65,540.00 USD
Imagine a coin that bridges the tumultuous transition of power in England, a gleaming artifact from the reign of William III, the resolute monarch who steered the nation through a pivotal chapter in its history. The 1701 Gold 5 Guinea, struck in the final year of William's reign, is not just a piece of currency but a bold statement of royal authority, economic strength, and the enduring legacy of the Glorious Revolution.
Crafted in the opulence of gold, the obverse of this majestic coin features the stoic portrait of William III, his profile marked by a strong nose and determined gaze. Encircling his likeness is the Latin inscription "GULIELMUS III DEI GRATIA"—William III, by the Grace of God. The artistry captures his regal poise and steadfast leadership during a period defined by the consolidation of constitutional monarchy. The wear consistent with its AU53 grade adds a layer of character, hinting at its journey through history, while still preserving the intricate details that celebrate William's reign.
The reverse of the coin is a masterful display of heraldic grandeur. At its center, the crowned cruciform shields represent the realms under William’s dominion: England, Scotland, Ireland, and France, symbolizing the unity and ambition of the British monarchy. Between the shields, the sceptres of power intersect, while at the heart lies the Star of the Order of the Garter, a nod to the chivalric traditions of the realm. The Latin legend along the edge reads "MAG BR FRA ET HIB REX 1701", declaring William as King of Great Britain, France, and Ireland. The precision of the engraving, even after centuries, remains a testament to the craftsmanship of the Royal Mint.
The year 1701 was significant not only for the minting of this coin but for its place in history. It marked the Act of Settlement, a defining moment that ensured the Protestant succession to the throne and shaped the constitutional framework of the United Kingdom. This coin, minted amidst these transformative events, is a tangible link to an era that redefined monarchy and governance.
Graded NGC AU53, this 5 Guinea retains much of its original brilliance, with only light circulation wear that accentuates its storied past. The fields display a subdued luster, and the devices remain sharply defined, reflecting the care of those who handled and preserved it through the centuries.
To possess this coin is to hold a piece of England’s history—a symbol of power, resilience, and the enduring legacy of William III. Each detail whispers of a time when monarchs shaped nations and coins like this were the embodiment of wealth, influence, and authority.
