The Synod of Dort [Dordtrecht]

The Synod of Dort [Dordtrecht], presentation or special silver medal, 1619, by Cornelius Wyntjes, crowned Belgic Lion to left with arrows and sword, the name יְהֹוָה radiates from above, RELIGIONE ET IVSTICIA RESTITVTIS, rev., crowned shield of the arms of Prince Maurice, within Garter, two clasped hands below, RESPVBLICA DEMVM FLOREBIT, 58mm, 72.65g (MI 223/79; vL II, 113; Eim. 100). A superb and heavy specimen, virtually mint state.

Prince Maurice, although of Arminian sympathies, took the side of the Gomarists as they supported the power of the Stadtholder. MI suggests the medal might have been struck as a special compliment to James I who had advocated a national synod to consider the controversy in the Dutch churches. This specimen is about a half ounce (15.16g) heavier than regular examples (see next lot) and the most obvious explanation is that it was struck for presentation rather than simply commemoration. The Synod was attended by delegates from Britain and seven other foreign countries and held between 13 November, 1618 and 9 May, 1619. See also footnote to previous lot.

Provenance: Schulman Auction, 1 November, 2001 (lot 1908).