Lot 4394
Great Britain. Crown, 1662. S.3350; ESC-15; Dav-3774. Charles II, 1660-1685. by John Roettier. First laureate draped bust of King right, rose below. Reverse: Inverted die axis, crowned cruciform shields. Edge reads DECVS ET TVTAMEN. Practically mint state for this normally weakly struck coin, and with the usual slight minting striations. This specimen glistens with original luster under a pleasing green and gold toning. NGC graded MS-61.
1662 was the first year of issue for the silver Crowns of Charles II. Charles had returned to England in 1660 having entered London on 29 May to a stupendous welcome from the crowds who had twenty months earlier witnessed the death of Oliver Cromwell.
After the execution of his father in 1649, Charles II was duly crowned King of Scotland in January 1651 and although Cromwell had heavily defeated the Scots at Dunbar on September 3 1650, Charles nevertheless led an army into England. He met a decisive defeat at Worcester one year later on September 3 1651, disguised himself as a servant, and hid in a large oak tree before departing for nine years of exile in Holland. In September 1658 Cromwell died and his son Richard became Lord Protector, but Richard had none of his father's genius and was happy to vacate the post. General Monck, the ablest of Cromwell's lieutenants, felt that the country was ready for the return of a suitably chastened monarchy and was instrumental in asking Parliament to proclaim Charles II King.
Charles was a pragmatist a patriot a scientist, a womaniser and a patron of the arts. He helped build the British navy and encouraged colonial expansion, and he was a clever political compromiser who was determined not to repeat the mistakes of his obstinate and ill-fated father.
At the time when this silver Crown was produced, the reign of Charles II was just beginning. His tenure lasted 25 years - a good innings in the 17th century - he undoubtedly had 'the common touch' and equally undoubtedly was the best of the Stewarts.
Estimated Value $5,000 - 6,000.
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| Realized $7,188 |
