The 1649 Great Britain Silver Memorial Medal of Charles I, known as “The Hand of God” medal, is a fascinating historical artifact. Created after the execution of King Charles I during the English Civil War, this silver medal is highly prized by collectors, especially in well-preserved conditions like PCGS MS63. Let’s dive into its history, design, and significance.
The History Behind the Medal
To understand the significance of this medal, it’s important to know the context. In January 1649, King Charles I was executed after losing the English Civil War. The conflict was between the Royalists (supporters of the king) and the Parliamentarians, who believed Charles had too much power. When Charles was captured, tried, and executed, it shocked the world, as it was rare for a monarch to face such punishment.
Royalists who believed in Charles I’s divine right to rule saw him as a martyr. To honor him, they created this silver memorial medal to symbolize their belief that his death was unjust and that his spirit lived on.
The Design and Meaning
The 1649 Silver Memorial Medal is rich with symbols that reflect the Royalist view of Charles I as a martyr. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements of the medal’s design:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Obverse (Front) | A detailed portrait of Charles I wearing a crown and armor, symbolizing his royal status. |
| Obverse Inscription | Latin: “CAROLVS I D G MAG BRIT FRAN ET HIB REX” (Charles I, by the Grace of God, King of Britain, France, and Ireland). |
| Reverse (Back) | A hand emerging from the sky (The Hand of God), pointing toward a crown. |
| Reverse Inscription | Latin: “VICIT VIM VIRTUS” (Virtue conquered force), reflecting the idea that Charles’s moral virtue outlived his death. |
Symbolism
- The Hand of God: This is the most important symbol on the medal, showing that Charles I’s death had divine significance. It implies that his execution was not just a political event but part of a greater, heavenly plan.
- Virtue Conquering Force: This phrase suggests that although Charles was defeated physically, his moral strength and legacy would remain victorious.
What Does PCGS MS63 Mean?
When collectors evaluate coins and medals, the condition is critical. PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) is a leading company that grades collectibles like this medal. The grade MS63 stands for “Mint State 63,” meaning the medal is in excellent condition, with only minor imperfections or marks.
A PCGS MS63 graded medal is especially valuable because it shows almost no wear and retains much of its original luster. The design details on both sides are clear and sharp, making it highly prized by collectors. For a medal from 1649, this condition is incredibly rare, adding to its value.
| Grade | Condition |
|---|---|
| MS63 (Mint State) | Almost no signs of wear; sharp details and original shine are mostly intact. |
| Lower Grades | May show more wear, scratches, or fading, reducing the collectible and historical value. |
Why This Medal Is Valuable
This silver medal is not just a piece of metal; it represents a key moment in British history—the execution of a king and the temporary end of the monarchy. It’s rare, especially in such good condition (PCGS MS63), which makes it highly sought after by collectors of British history and rare medals.
Some of the factors that make this medal valuable include:
- Historical Significance: It reflects a dramatic period in British history, symbolizing King Charles I’s controversial execution.
- Scarcity: Not many of these medals were made, and even fewer have survived in such good condition.
- Symbolism: The medal carries deep meaning, particularly for those interested in royal history and the English Civil War.
Conclusion
The 1649 Great Britain Silver Memorial Medal of Charles I (The Hand of God) is an incredible artifact from one of Britain’s most important historical moments. It not only represents the execution of a monarch but also captures the sentiment of his supporters, who saw him as a martyr. In PCGS MS63 condition, this medal is both a stunning example of craftsmanship and a valuable collector’s item. It connects us to a time when the monarchy was under siege, and it serves as a symbol of the belief in the divine right of kings.
FAQ’s
What is the significance of the 1649 Silver Memorial Medal of Charles I?
The 1649 Silver Memorial Medal of Charles I is significant because it commemorates the execution of King Charles I during the English Civil War. It symbolizes the royalist view that he was a martyr for his beliefs and represents a key moment in British history when the monarchy was challenged.
What does PCGS MS63 mean?
PCGS MS63 refers to the grading of the medal by the Professional Coin Grading Service. “MS” stands for “Mint State,” indicating that the medal is in excellent condition, with only minor imperfections. A grade of 63 means it has very few signs of wear and retains much of its original appearance.
Why is this medal valuable to collectors?
The medal is valuable to collectors due to its historical significance, rarity, and excellent condition. It represents a dramatic period in British history and is sought after by those interested in royal memorabilia and English Civil War artifacts.