Ancient, British and World Coins, Historical Medals and Tokens

Charles II (1660-1685), Naval Reward, 1665, by John Roettier, bust of Charles II to right, with short hair, reverse Charles II, dressed as a Roman general standing on sea shore, watching a naval engagement, pro. talibvs. avsis [For such enterprises] in exergue, 62mm (MI 503/139; E. 230). Good very fine, field a little scuffed, with an unusual dark red tinged patina (£200-300)

These large size medals, struck in both silver and gold, were given as rewards to those that had distinguished themselves at the Battle of Lowestoft, when the English fleet under the command of the Duke of York, Prince Rupert, and the Earl of Sandwich obtained a decisive victory over the Dutch. The Dutch commander, Opham, was killed and nineteen ships captured or destroyed. They were presented to those officers of the rank of Captain and above. The designed omitted a date or reference to the action in order that they might be used for appropriate occasions in the future.