Picked up this interesting coin from Ireland that's dated 1690. Not the best condition out there but it didn't burn a hole in my pocket. Plus the details stand out a fair bit. As I collect overstruck coins, this is one of those must haves as it tells an interesting history. Despite this type of coin is labelled as gun money, church bells were used as well. This was struck during James II era during 1689 - 1691. As England was waging a war, coins were struck in base metals. The original coins struck in 1689 had months dated on them as well as these coins were supposed to be gradually redeemable to silver except this didn't happen - James II lost the war. Inflation must have occured as coins were overstruck with twice the face value, i.e. crowns overstruck using half crown coins, shillings over sixpence and so forth. More information on wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gun_money
Interesting and historical gxseries. Though badly damaged it could surely tell some stories. The coin I've posted is, of course, a modern Irish coin counterstamped "1690". It's a reference to the year the decisive Battle of the Boyne was fought in the war you mentioned. William defeated James II across the River Boyne near Drogheda and paved the way for the Protestant ascendancy in Ireland. The victory is still celebrated today by Irish Loyalists groups, especially the Orange Order. I really do like your coin. Thanks for posting it. Bruce
