Charles II, Coronation, 1661, a struck silver medal, unsigned [by T. Rawlins], crowned bust...

Charles II, Coronation, 1661, a struck silver medal, unsigned [by T. Rawlins], crowned bust left wearing Collar of the Garter, carolvs ii d g mag bri fra et hi rex coronatvs, rev. dixi cvstodiam xxiii april 1661, Charles as a shepherd tending three flocks, representing the three kingdoms, edge pastore ovat ovile coronato, 33mm, 21.39g (MI I, 473/78; E 220). Good fine, very rare £500-£700 --- This piece is unsigned but of the same group as other dies, some of which are signed ‘R’ for Rawlins. Rawlins died in 1670 but had been nominal chief engraver since 1660. This is a highly professional and finished medal, probably made in 1661 and for the Coronation, as opposed to commemorating it later. However, it was not the ‘official’ medal approved for general circulation as was Simon’s. What is also surprising is the lettered edge made with a collar; there is a vertical witness line, and the letter bases are flat. Presses were still available, and of course Simon had access to them, as would Rawlins. However, the appearance of collars are unexpected. The thick Ramage coins of 1651 used them, so the knowledge existed, very possibly having originated with Briot. David Ramage was still at the Mint until his death before August 1662 and could have been involved with the mechanics – remembering his competent work in 1651. However, the ‘R’ signature could not be his, for he is not known to have any portraiture ability, but of course Rawlins did.