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The Great Britain Bronze Medal Mary I (Tudor) 1730-1780 40mm AU+ is a significant and rare example of 18th-century commemorative medallic art. This medal was issued during a period of great interest in the history of the Tudor dynasty, which was particularly marked by the reign of Queen Mary I, the first queen regnant of England. Mary I's reign, from 1553 to 1558, was tumultuous, primarily due to her strong attempts to restore Roman Catholicism in England, which included the Marian Persecutions. Despite the controversies surrounding her reign, Mary I's legacy has been the subject of much historical reflection, particularly during the 18th century. The 1730-1780 period saw a resurgence of interest in the Tudor monarchs, and medals like this one were often struck to commemorate the reigns of significant historical figures like Mary I. These medals were not only symbols of respect and admiration but also served as vehicles for political and cultural reflection in the years following the events of the Tudor era.
The design of the Great Britain Bronze Medal Mary I (Tudor) 1730-1780 is both intricate and respectful, encapsulating the key elements of Mary's reign and her personal characteristics. On the obverse of the medal, Mary I is depicted in full regalia, embodying her status as queen and monarch. The effigy of Mary I is often seen in profile, as was typical for medals of this time. Her facial features are rendered in fine detail, conveying the regal nature of the queen, while her attire is marked by elements that suggest the wealth and status of the Tudor court. The inscription surrounding the image of Mary I typically includes her name, title, and sometimes additional commentary on her reign or virtues, such as her piety or the challenges she faced. On the reverse side of the medal, an allegorical scene is commonly featured, symbolizing themes related to her reign, such as her attempts to restore Catholicism or the political climate of her time. The reverse may also include Latin inscriptions, which were customary for commemorative pieces during this era, emphasizing the medal's classical and scholarly nature. The design is carefully balanced, conveying both the historical context and the artistic preferences of the 18th century.
The Great Britain Bronze Medal Mary I was likely struck by a prominent British mint, though specific records of the mint responsible for its production are not always readily available. During the 18th century, there were several well-known mints in operation in Britain, with the Royal Mint in London being the most influential. Given the historical interest in Mary I during this period, it is plausible that a private mint or an official Royal Mint subsidiary would have produced the medal. Bronze was a common metal used for such commemorative pieces during the 18th century, as it was durable, cost-effective, and had the aesthetic quality suitable for striking medals. The use of bronze also made the medal more accessible for a broader audience, compared to gold or silver medals, which were often reserved for the elite or high-ranking individuals. The craftsmanship of this piece reflects the skill of the engravers and the high standards of the mint responsible for its production, showcasing the detailed engraving work that characterized the best of 18th-century medallic art.
The mintage of the Great Britain Bronze Medal Mary I is considered to be relatively low, especially given the specialized nature of commemorative medals of the time. Medals like this one were struck in limited numbers to preserve their value and exclusivity, and they were often produced in response to specific events or anniversaries. While precise mintage figures for this medal may not be readily available, its rarity is indicated by its Rarity Rating of 2 (R2), suggesting that only a small number of examples are known to have survived. This makes the Mary I bronze medal a rare piece for collectors of British history, Tudor memorabilia, or 18th-century coins and medals. Its limited mintage further enhances its desirability, as the demand for these items often exceeded the supply, creating a market for historically significant pieces like this one. Given the tumultuous and complex history of Mary I, medals commemorating her reign hold special significance for those interested in Tudor history and British monarchs.
The condition of the Great Britain Bronze Medal Mary I (Tudor) 1730-1780 is a critical factor in its desirability and value. This particular example is graded as AU+, or "About Uncirculated," indicating that it has been preserved in remarkable condition for its age. Medals of this era were typically subject to handling and wear, and many examples from the 18th century show considerable signs of aging, such as fading of the design, scratches, and edge wear. The AU+ grade for this medal signifies that it retains much of its original sharpness, with only minor signs of handling. The details in Mary I's portrait and the intricate design on the reverse remain clear, allowing collectors to appreciate the craftsmanship and artistry involved in its creation. An AU+ grade is considered to be an excellent condition for a medal of this vintage, and it enhances the value of the piece in the numismatic market. As with many historical medals, the condition significantly influences its marketability, and this piece's excellent preservation makes it a highly sought-after example.
The AU+ grade of the Great Britain Bronze Medal Mary I (Tudor) 1730-1780 indicates that the medal has been preserved with minimal signs of wear, which is particularly impressive given its age. The high-quality craftsmanship of the medal ensured that it was able to withstand the ravages of time better than many other pieces from the same era. The fine details in the design, such as the intricate facial features of Mary I and the detailed engravings on the reverse, remain clearly visible and sharp, a hallmark of the excellent care the medal has received over the years. Bronze medals, due to their relatively durable nature, can often survive in much better condition than paper or softer metals, and this example serves as a testament to the care and preservation efforts undertaken to protect it. The coin’s exceptional condition makes it an attractive item for collectors, especially those looking for high-quality examples from the 18th century.
The Great Britain Bronze Medal Mary I (Tudor) 1730-1780 serves not only as a historical artifact but also as a reflection of the public perception of Mary I during the 18th century. Despite the contentious nature of her reign, which was marked by religious conflict and political strife, Mary I was often romanticized and viewed through a lens of nostalgia during the 1700s, when many monarchs looked back to the Tudor period with admiration. The creation of this medal was likely motivated by an interest in her legacy, whether seen through a favorable or critical perspective. The medal's design, with its refined artistic qualities, reflects the desire of collectors and historians in the 18th century to commemorate and reflect on the legacy of the Tudor dynasty, particularly the reign of Mary I. This medal is thus not just a reflection of Mary's rule but also a product of the historical and cultural shifts in the centuries following her death.
The Germany Bronze Medal Mary I (Tudor) 1730-1780 40mm AU+ is an exceptional piece for collectors of Tudor and British history. The quality of the design, combined with the rarity of the medal, makes it a desirable item in the field of historical numismatics. For collectors, this medal offers a unique glimpse into the 18th-century perception of one of England’s most controversial monarchs. It also offers a chance to connect with the artistic and cultural developments of the time, showcasing the skill of the engravers and the artistic taste of the 1700s. Whether as a historical artifact or as a collectible, the Mary I bronze medal continues to be a cherished piece that reflects the intersection of history, art, and numismatics in the British cultural heritage.
In conclusion, the Great Britain Bronze Medal Mary I (Tudor) 1730-1780 40mm AU+ is a rare, beautifully designed, and historically significant item. Its well-preserved condition and limited mintage make it a prized possession for collectors. The medal commemorates the reign of Mary I, reflecting both the complexities of her legacy and the 18th-century fascination with the Tudor dynasty. As a work of art, a piece of history, and a rare collectible, it holds substantial value in the world of numismatics and historical memorabilia.