 William III, 1694-1702. 5 Guineas, 1701. Distinctive large laureate bust r. displaying exceptionally crisp detail. Rv. Cruciform shields, scepters in angles and escutcheon of Nassau at center. Edge ANNO REGNI DECIMO TERTIO. S.3456, Fr.309. Exquisite gold lustre enriches smooth and virtually prooflike fields, highlighting the intricately detailed strike.
William died the next year after a fall from his horse, which stepped into a mole hole, causing his Jacobite opponents to drink surreptitious toasts to ''the wee gentleman in the gray waist coat.'' He was an able ruler, though afflicted with clinical depression and alcoholism. This 'Fine Work' coinage was struck only in 1701 and represented a high point in the history of British coinage technology. Brilliant Uncirculated. (Est. $15,000-$20,000)
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