Rare gold touch piece of King James II

Code: 11514

This is an original gold Touchpiece of King James II, dating from 1685 - 1688 AD. Another in the Royal Collection Trust can be viewed here RCIN 443158. What we can be certain of is that King James II would have personally touched this gold coin as he performed the healing ceremony. From 1665 these medalets were specifically made for the 'Touching' ceremony and officially pierced and presented on a white ribbon. Its nice in having some wear, demonstrating the recipient wore it and cherished it as a healing pendant and talisman. Further information on these 'Touchpieces' can be read at the Royal College of Physicians website "Touching for ‘the King’s evil’: a short history" A nice historic object in excellent condition.

DENOMINATION: Touchpiece

CULTURE: Stuart Britain

MONARCH: King James II

DATE: 1685 - 1688 AD

MATERIAL: Gold

SIZE: 19mm diameter

WEIGHT: 2.08 grams

PROVENANCE: Formerly in the Michael Gietzelt Collection of Scottish Coins