A Selection of Croker Medals

CNG 109, Lot: 1069. Estimate $300. Sold for $260. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

STUART. Anne. 1702-1714. AR Medal (35.5mm, 15.74 g, 2h). Accession. By J. Croker. Struck 1702. ANNA · D : G : MAG : BR : FR : ET · HIB : REGINA ·, crowned and draped bust left / ENTIRELY · ENGLISH, heart surrounded by crowned wreath of laurel and oak branches; all set on pediment inscribed ATAVIS/REGIBVS in two lines. MI 227/1; Eimer 388. EF, deep iridescent tone, old scratch in reverse field.

From the Gasvoda Collection.

From the consignor: John Croker began his employment as a British mint engraver in the late 1600’s. He was the chief engraver at the Tower of London (Royal Mint) from 1705 to 1741. During his long tenure he created many medals for King George I, Queen Anne, and King George II. These medals were struck at the Tower Mint but produced privately by Croker. The number of medals is quite large given the demands on his time fulfilling his duties as the chief engraver. Most were struck in bronze, silver and gold, the latter being quite rare. This series is reminiscent of the propaganda efforts of ancient Roman emperors. This period covered the time of the War of Spanish Succession and the War of the Quadruple Alliance. Most important victories were recorded by Croker through his medal designs. It is within reason to attempt completing a set of these medals in either bronze or silver, although finding them in a high state of preservation, as most are here, is more difficult.