2020-09-09 Wed

William II of England, sometimes called William ‘Rufus’ for his red hair and complexion, reigned as the king of England from 1087 to 1100 CE. He was the third of four sons born to William the Conqueror and Matilda of Flanders. Today on 9th September in the year 1087 William Rufus becomes King of England, taking the title William II.

He prevented the dissolution of political ties between England and Normandy, but his strong-armed rule earned him a reputation as a brutal, corrupt tyrant. William was a figure of complex temperament, capable of both bellicosity and flamboyance. He did not marry, nor did he father any offspring, which has led to speculations of possible homosexuality by historians. He died after being hit by an arrow while hunting, under circumstances that remain unclear.

The above shown silver penny of William II showing a crowned head facing stars to left and right. The reverse of a coin depicts voided cross potent, with annulet at center.

Image Source: https://cngcoins.com