Lot 314: A Regency Commemorative Box Medal Featuring George Prince Regent
Sold for: £25
A Regency-period metal box medal of circular form, composed of two screw-fit halves with a darkened, aged patina. The obverse features a profile bust of George IV as Prince Regent facing left, depicted in a military uniform with a high collar and epaulette. This central image is encircled by the struck transcription HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS GEORGE PRINCE REGENT. The reverse is struck with the central inscription CHRONOLOGY OF THE SOVEREIGNS OF ENGLAND. The text is surrounded by a decorative border consisting of six circular Garter motifs, each containing a central Tudor rose and the motto HONI SOIT QUI MAL Y PENSE, separated by knotted ribbon designs. The interior of both halves displays the mirrored, incuse strike of the exterior motifs. This type of commemorative object was designed to house a set of circular printed paper discs, which are no longer present. No maker’s marks, signatures, or labels are visible on the metal surfaces.
Condition report:
The box medal exhibits signs of significant environmental exposure and handling. The obverse shows heavy darkening and tarnish across the field, with evident surface wear and rubbing to the high points of the Prince Regent\'s profile and the surrounding lettering. The reverse displays similar heavy toning and surface rubbing, particularly to the raised portions of the Garter motifs and the central text. Several small nicks and scratches are visible across the exterior surfaces (photos 1, 3, and 4). The interior shows extensive dark oxidation and surface marking (photos 5 and 6). The original internal printed chronology discs are missing. The screw thread appears functional, allowing the two halves to fit together.
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