William III - 1695 Silver Crown (VF) - Cinquefoils for crosses on edge

This 1695 Silver Crown is an impressive and historic coin from the reign of William III. Struck in sterling silver (92.5%), it weighs approximately 29.83g and has a diameter of 39mm.

The edge of the coin (the raised outer rim) was inscribed with a message in raised lettering as a security feature against clipping (removing small amounts of silver). The standard inscription on William III Crowns reads: "DECVS ET TUTAMEN" (An Ornament and a Safeguard). On most examples, small crosses separate the words in the edge inscription.However, in some rare versions, cinquefoils (a five-petaled flower symbol: ✿) replace the crosses. This coin is one of the rarer types with cinquefoils on the edge

The obverse features a laureate bust of King William III facing right. It was minted after Mary died in 1694.  The legend reads GVLIELMVS III DEI GRA - (William III, by the Grace of God).

The revense displays the famous cruciform shield design, with four crowned shields representing England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, separated by a central Garter star.  The legend reads:
MAG BR FRA ET HIB REX 1693
(King of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, 1693).

The coin dates from the early years of William III’s reign, following the Glorious Revolution of 1688, when he and his wife Mary II took the throne. The coinage of this era reflects a period of political transition and war with France.

Weight 29.83g

(ref:AHC159)