World Coin of the Week: Engraved 1642 Half Pound from the Demarete Collection

By Greg Cohen, Professional Numismatist and Consignment Director, US and World Coins.

Over the course of decades, the family of collectors that formed the Demarete Collection did not just put away high grade examples of rare coins or interesting varieties of ancient coins - they also set aside curiosities worthy of future research. One of the most historically interesting coins encountered so far in this extensive collection is an Oxford Half Pound, dated 1642. After seeing some moderate use in circulation, the coin had two scenes hand engraved by an artist of exceptional skill on the reverse. In the top scene, King Charles is shown praying, about to place his head on the executioner’s chopping block, while surrounded by the executioner and his guards and being read his last rites by a clergyman holding a bible. The lower scene depicts Oliver Cromwell and his mounted Round Head troops, as well as a number of Pikesmen. The work is unsigned and not dated, but is likely contemporary. For those numismatists who specialize in the coins of the era of the English Civil War, this is a great addition to an advanced collection, and worthy of further research. Lot viewing begins in our New York office on January 2. We invite you to view this and every other coin in our New York International Auction sale. To make an appointment, please contact one of our auction services associates. We hope to see you at the NYINC, and on behalf of everyone here at Stack’s Bowers Galleries, we wish you a happy and healthy New Year.