James II – Gunmoney Halfcrown, 1689 (Large Size)

WIH 9833

James II. 1685–1691. Copper‑alloy “Gunmoney” Halfcrown. IACOBVS II DEI GRATIA, laureate and draped bust left. Reverse MAG BR FRA ET HIB REX 1689, crown over sceptres dividing I R; XXX above. Spink 6579. 32 mm.

The Gunmoney coinage was struck from brass obtained from old cannon, bells, and other scrap metal. Issued by James II as an emergency token currency during the war against William III, the coins were intended to be redeemed in silver after a Jacobite victory. The month (here illegible) was added to allow staged redemption. Following James’s defeat, the series was demonetized in 1691.

£125.00