Ancient, British and World Coins, Tokens, Historical Medals and Banknotes

Bicentenary of the Death of Pedro Calderon de la Barca, 1881, a bronze medal by J. Esteban-Lozano, bust left, reverse theatrical effects, 68mm (BDM VII, 258). Brilliant, practically as struck; in original maroon velvet-lined case (£40-60)

Don Pedro Calderon de la Barca (1600-81), the Spanish playwright who dominated his national stage for much of the 17th century, is best known for his philosophical play ‘Life Is A Dream.’ He is also generally credited with having started the Zarzuela, the Spanish version of opera