The monarchs of the House of Stuart were first kings of Scotland, then England and Ireland and eventually Great Britain. During the reigns of James VI and I (ruled 1603 to 1625) and Charles I (1625-1649) coinage was hammered. After the restoration of the monarchy and the return of Charles II (1660-1685), the older technique was superseded by machinery. This period encompasses the reigns of James II (1685-1688), the joint rule of Mary II and William III (1689-1694) his independent rule (1694-1702) and latterly that of Anne (1702-1714). During her reign the Acts of Union untied the kingdoms of England and Scotland into Great Britain, more than a century after the union of the crowns.
