1701 ENGLAND GOLD 5 GUINEA WILLIAM III NGC AU55

$66,700.00 USD

In the shimmering brilliance of gold lies a coin that tells the story of a nation’s resilience and transformation: the 1701 England Gold 5 Guinea, struck during the reign of William III. This extraordinary piece, graded NGC AU55, represents both the opulence of the era and the indelible legacy of one of England's most pivotal monarchs.

As you hold this coin, the obverse reveals the unmistakable profile of William III, his visage a portrait of resolve and authority. The Latin inscription, "GULIELMUS III DEI GRATIA" (William III, by the Grace of God), surrounds the image, proclaiming his divine right to rule. The artistry of the engraving captures the monarch’s firm expression, his long Roman nose and flowing hair immortalized in gold. The slight wear consistent with the AU55 grade softens the high points of the design while leaving the finer details of his portrait remarkably intact—a testament to the careful handling and preservation this coin has received.

Turning to the reverse, you’re greeted by a magnificent display of heraldic splendor. At its heart, the cruciform arrangement of crowned shields represents the realms under William’s reign: England, Scotland, Ireland, and France. Interspersed between the shields are the royal sceptres, symbols of sovereign power, while at the center lies the radiant Star of the Order of the Garter, England's most prestigious chivalric order. The Latin legend around the edge, "MAG BR FRA ET HIB REX 1701", declares William as King of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, encapsulating his authority over these historic lands. The intricate detailing of this design, complemented by the coin’s rich golden glow, makes it a masterpiece of 18th-century numismatic art.

The year 1701 was one of profound significance for England. It saw the passage of the Act of Settlement, which secured the Protestant succession to the throne, ensuring stability in a time of uncertainty. This coin, minted amidst such monumental events, is not merely a relic of its time but a symbol of the enduring strength of the British monarchy.

Graded NGC AU55, this 5 Guinea boasts a captivating combination of preservation and character. The surfaces retain much of their original luster, and the designs are well-defined, with only light wear that enhances the coin’s story of survival through centuries. Its weight and presence in hand speak to the grandeur of the era when such coins were tangible expressions of wealth, influence, and royal power.

To own this coin is to possess a fragment of history—a gleaming testament to the reign of William III and a reflection of an age when gold carried not only economic value but the very essence of sovereignty. This 5 Guinea is more than a numismatic treasure; it is a timeless connection to the foundations of modern Britain.