The Christopher Foley, F.S.A., Collection Of Early English Medals - 16th October 2014
Lot 65
Assistance to the United Provinces
Estimate £400 - £500 | Hammer £400
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Description
Assistance to the United Provinces, Dutch Silver Jeton, 1585, Elizabeth enthroned, presents roses to two Deputies, MACTE ANIMI ROSA NECTARE IMBVTA, rev., two Spaniards eat hay from a manger along with a horse and donkey, SPRETE AMBROSIA VESCITOR FENO, 29mm (MI 133/86; Eim. 51; Dugn 3044; vL I, 355, 2). Extremely fine, toned and rare in silver.
Struck to commemorate the Treaty of Nonsuch, signed by Elizabeth I at Nonsuch Palace, Surrey, 10 August, 1585. Initially intended as a way of lifting the Siege of Antwerp, Elizabeth agreed to supply 6,400 foot soldiers and 1,000 cavalry, along with an annual subsidy of 600,000 florins a year. The treaty was seen by Spain as a declaration of war which would lead to the Spanish Armada three years later.
Provenance: Morton & Eden Auction, 20-21 May, 2003 (lot 1106).