William Laud (1573-1645)

William Laud (1573-1645), Archbishop of Canterbury, trial and execution, silvered electrotype copy of the excessively rare medal, 1645, perhaps by Thomas Simon, bust right in ecclesiastical robes and hat, 36.5mm (MI 315/146; Platt II, p. 189). Very fine, much as made.

Laud was arrested in 1640 but his trial did not begin until 12 March 1644. Found guilty of treason, he was executed on Tower Hill on 10 January, 1645.

Provenance: Bt. D. Fearon, February, 2005; ex Papillon Collection, Bonhams Auction, 25 March, 1998 (lot 27).