Probably executed for presentation on special occasions.
20. "Phœnix Badge," 1574. Obv. Bust of Queen l., wearing pearls in hair, ruff, &c. ELIZABETHA D. G. ANG. &c. Around—
"Hei mihi quod tanto virtus perfusa decore"
"Non habet eternos inviolata dies."
Rev. Phœnix amid flames: above, monogram of Queen, crowned, and 1574 engraved roughly; around,
"Felices Arabes, mundi quibus unica phœnix"
"Phoenicem reparat depereundo novam"
"O miseros Anglos, mundi quibus unica phœnix"
"Ultima fit nostro, tristia fata, solo."
Silver. Size 1·75. Cast and chased.
The legends may indicate the apprehension for the Queen's life occasioned by the severe plague, which visited London in 1574.
21. Defeat of the Spanish Armada, &c., 1588—9. Obv. Bust of Queen in high relief, facing, crowned, wearing high ruff, &c., and holding sceptre; and orb. DITIOR IN TOTO NON ALTER CIRCVLVS ORBE. Rev. Bay-tree uninjured by lightning on inhabited island inscribed, NON IPSA PERICVLA TANGVNT: border of leaves. Gold. Oval. Size 2·35. Cast and chased; with ring for suspension.
This medal records not only the defeat of the Spanish Armada, but also the averting of other dangers which at that time threatened both England and her Sovereign. The Queen of Scots was dead; James of Scotland had been conciliated; the Duke of Guise was dead, and France and the Vatican were baffled. The bay-tree was deemed incapable of injury from lightning.
22—23. Another. Similar: on obverse, bust of Queen, three quarters l., without sceptre and orb, and on reverse, E. R. in field, and no buildings on island. Gold and silver (with original chain). Size 1·9. Cast and chased; with ring for suspension.