Elizabeth I bronze medal - Defence of the Kingdom (c. 1572 England)

Bronze

0.90inch

2.29 cm

Very Fine. The inscription on the scroll across the sphere on the reverse of the medal has been obliterated by time, with the exception of the last letter

Charming bronze Elizabeth I medalette symbolizing the fortification of her kingdom both physically and spiritually. Circa 1572. Obverse: Bust of Elizabeth I facing left, crowned, hair long, wearing a small ruff and a rich dress; between portcullis and rose. Legend: QVID . NOS . SINE . TE. (What are we without thee.) Stops, fleurs-de-lis. Reverse: A castle on a mount, between E. R. Below, a sphere with scroll inscribed, O QVANTO (inscription obliterated by time on this particular medal). Legend: QVID . HOC . SINE . ARMIS. (What is this without arms.) Stops, fleurs-de-lis.

See "Medallic Illustrations" vol.I, p.120/57.

The style of dress places this medal at about 1572 as do also the political circumstances of that period. Elizabeth was preoccupied with fortifying her kingdom against anticipated attacks from the Roman Catholic powers of Europe (mainly Spain and France). She was considered the chief support of the Protestant reformers (particularly the Low Countries), who might deem their cause as defenceless without her, as a castle would be without arms. The inclusion of the portcullis, the rose and the fleur-de-lis refers to Elizabeth's influence abroad as well as at home and the medal also intimates that power must support dignity and independence. In 1885, "Medallic Illustrations" rated this medal as "Somewhat rare".

gbp 760.00 (Pound Sterling)

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