The 1731 Kings and Queens of England Medals, crafted by Jean Dassier, Switzerland’s Chief Engraver, showcase the British monarchs from William I to George I in exquisite detail . Comprising 34 expertly damascened bronze medals in Extremely Fine condition, this exceptional series epitomizes the finest in British medallic art.
Thirty-two medals feature regal portraits on the obverse and depictions of the monarchs’ final resting places on the reverse, approved by Queen Caroline. The 38mm Cromwell medal contrasts the 41mm standard size, while the original leather case with green felt lining exemplifies the set’s remarkable preservation.
Background and Context
The 1731 Kings and Queens of England Medals were the creation of Jean Dassier, a renowned Swiss medallist who served as the Chief Engraver of Geneva from 1720 onwards. Hailing from a family of skilled medallists, Dassier received training under his father and further honed his craft in Paris before assuming the prestigious role at the Geneva Mint.
In 1728, England offered Dassier a position at the Royal Mint, which he ultimately declined. However, his expertise and reputation resulted in the commission of the remarkable Kings and Queens series in 1731. The series, advertised for purchase by subscription, offered copper sets priced at 6 guineas and silver sets at 15 guineas.
Dassier’s Artistic Journey
- Born in 1676, Jean Dassier came from a family of medallists and received training from his father.
- He studied in Paris, further refining his skills in the art of medal engraving.
- In 1720, Dassier was appointed as the Chief Engraver at the Geneva Mint, a position he held until his death in 1763.
- During his illustrious career, Dassier produced over 250 medals, cementing his reputation as a prominent and celebrated Swiss engraver.
The Kings and Queens of England Medals, comprising 35 pieces, were a testament to Dassier’s artistic prowess and his dedication to capturing the essence of English royal history through his exquisite medallic art.
Image Credits – The Royal Mint
Intricate Craftsmanship
- The set comprises 34 medals, each measuring 41mm in diameter, except for the 38mm medal dedicated to Oliver Cromwell.
- The obverse side features meticulously engraved portraits of the monarchs, from William I to George II, capturing their regal presence with remarkable detail.
- The reverse side depicts the final resting places of the monarchs, approved by Queen Caroline herself, adding a poignant historical touch to the series.
| Medal Composition | Obverse Design | Reverse Design |
|---|---|---|
| Damascened Bronze | Monarch Portrait | Final Resting Place |
The damascening technique, involving the inlaying of one metal into another, highlights the intricate designs and elevates the artistic value of these medals. Despite their age, the set remains in an Extremely Fine condition, a testament to the exceptional preservation and care bestowed upon these masterpieces.
Variations and Rarity
Exceptional Condition and Rarity
The 1731 Kings and Queens of England Medals by Jean Dassier are a true testament to the exceptional preservation and rarity of this remarkable series. Described as the “finest and most appealing” set encountered by the seller, each medal is in a mint state, boasting superb toning and an Extremely Fine condition [2]. This level of preservation is a remarkable feat, considering the age of these pieces.
- Comprehensive Royal Overview: This medallic series offers a comprehensive overview of English royal history, spanning from William I to George II, covering a period from the 11th to the 18th centuries [1].
- Unique Damascened Bronze Set: The set is described as being in “extremely fine condition” and is likely a unique set of damascened bronze medals, adding to its rarity and value [6].
- Auction Rarity and Value: Similar high-quality sets have previously sold at auctions for over £3,000, highlighting the significant value and rarity of this collection [2]. This particular set is priced at £4,625.00, reflecting its exceptional quality and historical significance [1].
| Composition | Condition | Auction Value |
|---|---|---|
| Damascened Bronze | Extremely Fine | Over £3,000 |
Dedicated Medals and Presentation
Adding to the uniqueness of this set are the inclusion of a dedication medal to George II and a medal of Queen Caroline [2]. The set is housed in a modern blue leather case lined with royal blue velvet and white silk, with the lid gold blocked with the title “Kings and Queens of England William I to George II by J A Dassier 1731 (33)” [6].
Collecting and Valuation
Rarity and Value
Collectors highly covet the 1731 Kings and Queens of England Medals by Jean Dassier because of their exceptional rarity and historical significance. This comprehensive set, consisting of 34 exquisitely crafted damascened bronze medals, currently carries a price of £4,625.00 [1]. With limited stock, these medals serve as a true testament to the finest in British medallic art.
- Limited Availability: The seller notes that these medals are in limited stock, emphasizing their scarcity and exclusivity [1].
- Expedited Shipping: For orders within the UK, the set will be shipped within 3-5 working days, ensuring a swift delivery for eager collectors [1].
| Availability | Shipping (UK) | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Limited Stock | 3-5 Working Days | £4,625.00 |
Auction Insights
London Coins, a renowned auction house specializing in coins, banknotes, and medals, provides valuable insights into the valuation and sale of such rare collectibles. Their website features a “Realised Prices” section, showcasing the realized prices for items sold in previous auctions [7]. This information can serve as a valuable reference for collectors seeking to understand the market value of similar pieces.
According to expert estimates, a set of this caliber could fetch a price range of $2,500 – $3,500 at auction [5], further highlighting the significant value and desirability of the 1731 Kings and Queens of England Medals.
Conclusion
The 1731 Kings and Queens of England Medals by Jean Dassier stand as a remarkable testament to the artistry and historical significance of British medallic art. This comprehensive set, comprising exquisitely crafted damascened bronze medals, captures the essence of English royal history with intricate detail and unparalleled preservation. Its exceptional condition and limited availability make it a highly coveted acquisition for collectors and connoisseurs alike.
With its rarity and artistic mastery, this series not only celebrates the legacy of British monarchs but also serves as a showcase of Dassier’s exceptional skill as a Swiss engraver. As a true masterpiece, the 1731 Kings and Queens of England Medals offer a glimpse into a rich tapestry of history, inviting collectors to appreciate the enduring beauty and significance of numismatic art.
