ELIZABETH I Defence of the Kingdom Medal. Circa 1572

Highly symbolic ELIZABETH I Defence of the Kingdom silver medal.

Made in England. Circa 1572



See Medallic Illustrations of the History of Great Britain and Ireland to the Death of George II. Vol. I

Originally published by the trustees of the British Museum 1885 and reprinted by Spink & Son Ltd 1978.

On page 120, no. 57 of Vol. I, it is written that this medal is somewhat rare, followed by the comment; The date and object of this piece have not been clearly ascertained. The style of dress might place it about 1572 and the device is not inapplicable to the circumstances of that period, when Elizabeth fortified her kingdom against the anticipated attacks from the Roman Catholic powes of Europe. She was considered the chief support of the reformers, who might deem their cause as defenceless without her, as a castle would be without arms. Perry, who was chiefly directed by Hollis interprets the legend as referring to the Portcullis, Rose and Fleur-de-lis and to the influence of Elizabeth abroad as well as at home and also as intimating that power must support dignity and independence.

This medal was rated as somewhat rare in Medallic Illustrations Vol. I in 1885.



Diameter: 0.9 inches (2.3cm)