Coin, English, silver, issued by William II, moneyer, Godwine, at Winchester, Hampshire, 1087 to 1100.

Coin, English, silver, issued by William II, moneyer, Godwine, at Winchester, Hampshire, 1087 to 1100.

Silver penny of William II (1087-1100)

Norman, 1090-1093

William the Conqueror left the English throne to his third and favourite son, William II nicknamed Rufus because of his flaming red hair. In terms of style William II's coins were very much a continuation of his father's issues. They are, however, much scarcer since fewer mints were active probably because enough coins had been struck during William I's reign. The obverse of this coin shows a crowned bust, facing, holding a sword with the inscription +WILLELMREX/ whilst the reverse is inscribed +GODINEIONWINE (Godinei, or possibly Gowinei, of Winchester).

Coin, English, silver, issued by William II, moneyer, Godwine, at Winchester, Hampshire, 1087 to 1100.