1666 Crown – Charles II (Second Bust, 3355)

The 1666 Crown - Charles II (Second Bust, 3355)

1666 Silver Crown (5 Shillings) of King Charles II. The coin was milled using the mill and screw machinery of Peter Blondeau at the Tower Mint (Royal Mint in London). SCBC 3355.

The Second bust was slightly smaller than the First bust, and hair tie wrap is slightly curved. The edge has the regnal date in Roman figures, 1666 is XVIII.

There is a variant with "RE.X" which is only a slightly higher cost. You can also find the 1666 Crown with an elephant below the bust (SCBC 3356) and they are more expensive.

Diameter 40mm, weight 29g.

The Obverse shows a laureate bust of Charles II right. Legend is "CAROLVS . II . DEI . GRATIA". Artist John Roettiers.

Edge has raised lettering, "DECVS ET TVTAMEN ANNO REGNI XVIII" meaning an ornament and a safeguard and the regnal date in Roman numerals, 1666 = XVIII.

The Reverse is four crowned shields representing England, Scotland, France and Ireland. Garter at centre. Interlocking C's in angles. Legend "MAG BR FRA ET HIB REX" with date 1666 divided at top.

Prices may start around £200 in Fine condition but quickly rise close to 5-figures in EF.

Image credit: Museums Victoria

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