The 700th Anniversary of London’s Mayoralty

CNG 85, Lot: 1638. Estimate $150. Sold for $410. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

HANOVER. Victoria, with Richard I. 1837-1901. Æ Medal (81mm, 265.32 g, 12h). City of London Series: 700th Anniversary of the Mayoralty of the City of London. By A. Kirkwood & Son. Dated 1889. · To commemorate the 700th anniversary of the Mayorlty of the City of London ·, crowned and draped bust of Richard right and crowned, veiled, and draped bust of Victoria left, wearing earring and necklace; seven interlocked rings above, St. George slaying the dragon below / THE POWERS THAT BE ARE ORDAINED BY GOD, Londinia seated right on overturned urn, receiving symbols of Mayoralty from St. Michael standing left, holding sword; 1189-1889 in exergue. BHM 3377; Eimer 1752; Welch 23. Superb EF, warm chocolate brown surfaces. Rare.

From a California Collection of British Historical Medals.

Following the succession of Richard I to the throne in 1189, the title of mayor was first used for the chief governor of the city of London. In order to commemorate the 700th anniversary of this event, the Corporation of the City of London struck this medal with a mintage of 450 pieces.