1/2 Penny - William and Mary draped busts

Historical Context: This 1689 1/2 Penny marks the inaugural year of William III and Mary II's joint reign, following the Glorious Revolution of 1688. Their ascension fundamentally reshaped English monarchy. The coin's innovative bimetallic composition, a copper centre in a tin ring, was a direct governmental response to the severe shortage of small change and rampant counterfeiting. It represents a significant, albeit short-lived, monetary experiment to stabilize the economy.

Artistry: The design is attributed to John Roettiers, Master Engraver at the Royal Mint, reflecting the late Baroque stylistic school. The obverse features the conjoined, draped busts of William and Mary, facing right, with William in front. Their classical drapery and regal bearing convey authority, a common artistic convention of the period. The reverse typically depicts Britannia, a standard motif for English minor coinage.

Technical/Grading: The coin's bimetallic construction is its defining technical characteristic. High-points for wear include William's hair and laurel wreath, Mary's coiffure, and drapery folds. Due to the complex manufacturing process, examples often show imperfect plug centering, uneven strikes, or metal separation. The inherent softness of tin makes these coins highly susceptible to surface corrosion and damage, rendering well-preserved, strongly struck examples with intact rings particularly prized.