The coinage of William III and Mary II of England, who jointly ruled from 1689 to 1694, reflects the historical and political developments of their reign during the late 17th century. Their coinage included various denominations in gold, silver, and copper, with distinctive designs reflecting the changes in monarchy and politics. Here are some key points about the coinage of William and Mary:

1. Joint Monarchs: The coinage of William and Mary typically featured both monarchs on the obverse side of the coins, reflecting their joint rule. The specific design may vary based on the coin's denomination and issue.
2. Denominations: Coins from this period included various denominations, such as guineas, crowns, half-crowns, shillings, sixpences, and other smaller values. Gold coins, like guineas, were issued in addition to silver and copper coins.
3. Design Changes: William and Mary's coinage often included the initials "W" and "M" on the reverse side of the coins to represent their joint rule. These initials were placed between the shields or heraldic symbols that were common on English coins.
4. Religious Tolerance: The reign of William and Mary was a time of increased religious tolerance for Protestant dissenters. Coins may reflect this by featuring references to religious unity or liberty.
5. The Bill of Rights: The reign of William and Mary coincided with the passing of the Bill of Rights in 1689. While the Bill of Rights is not directly reflected in the coin designs, it had a profound impact on constitutional and political changes in England.
6. Military Conflicts: William III was involved in various European conflicts during his reign, and the need for funds to support these wars influenced the coinage.
7. Condition and Rarity: The value of William and Mary coins, like all collectible coins, depends on their condition, rarity, and demand among collectors.

Coins from the joint reign of William III and Mary II are historically significant and are sought after by collectors. They provide a tangible connection to the political and constitutional changes that occurred during the late 17th century, including the establishment of constitutional monarchy and the transition to a more tolerant society.

THE REIGN: 

1. The Glorious Revolution: William and Mary's reign began as a result of the Glorious Revolution of 1688. In that year, William of Orange, who was Mary's husband and a Dutch prince, was invited by Protestant nobles to invade England and overthrow Mary's father, King James II. The revolution was "glorious" because it was relatively bloodless and led to the replacement of James II with his Protestant daughter, Mary, and her husband, William.
2. Bill of Rights: One of the most important developments during their reign was the Bill of Rights, which was passed by the English Parliament in 1689. The Bill of Rights established constitutional principles and limited the powers of the monarchy. It laid the foundation for constitutional monarchy in England and is considered a key document in the development of parliamentary democracy.
3. Religious Tolerance: William and Mary's reign marked an important shift in religious policy. The Act of Toleration of 1689 granted religious freedom to Protestant dissenters, although it did not extend the same rights to Catholics or non-Protestant groups.
4. Warfare: William III was involved in various European conflicts during his reign, including the Nine Years' War (1688-1697). England was part of a grand European alliance against France. The Treaty of Ryswick (1697) marked the end of the Nine Years' War.
5. Death and Succession: Mary II died of smallpox in 1694. William III continued to rule as king alone until his death in 1702. He was succeeded by Mary's sister, Anne.
6. Colonial Expansion: The reign of William and Mary saw the expansion of English colonies in North America, including the establishment of the Dominion of New England.
7. Art and Culture: The late 17th century was a period of significant artistic and cultural development, with the emergence of the English Baroque style in art and architecture.

William and Mary's joint reign had a profound impact on English and European history. It marked a transition from absolute monarchy to constitutional monarchy and contributed to the development of democratic and parliamentary principles in England. Their reign also played a role in the broader European balance of power and conflicts.