Medallion: The Great Seals of the Realm King Henry VIII, 2oz Fine Silver

Reverse

The arms of England and France quarterly encircled by the collar of the Order of the Garter. A Latin motto surrounds the coin.

Script: Latin

Lettering: ORDINE IVNGVNTVR ET PERSTANT FEDERE CVNCTA

Translation: All things are joined by order and stand firm by treaty

Comment

The first in a series of medals recreating the golden seals or “bullas” of British monarchs. These seals were used to symbolize the official will and authority of the monarch and were attached to important state documents as a physical mark of royal ratification.

The seal was specially created for the Treaty of Amiens between the king and his close rival Francis I, King of France and first used for that occasion. As King Francis I’s seal was attached first, and not to be ‘outdone’ by his contemporary, Henry VIII had a seal specially made which was considered far better and ornate in terms of design and it is the front side of the gold seal of Henry VIII which he attached to the treaty he made with France. The seal shows Henry VIII seated upon a Renaissance throne and it is thought that this style, which deviates from the medieval reverse designs of his first and second great seals, also went on to inspire the design for the king’s third and final great seal.

The seal has been recreated using original specimens held in The Royal Mint Museum’s collection. The seal was re-mastered using modern techniques and each medal is struck to proof standard and has a fully frosted finish.

One of 6 issues including 1oz Fine Silver; 1/4 oz, 1 oz, and 2 oz Fine Gold; and Cupro-Nickel varieties.

Price

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