Baldwin's of St. James's
Auction 5 15 May 2017
View prices realized
► Sale information
Find similar lots
British Commemorative Medals, William Beckford (1705-1770), twice Lord Mayor of London, silver medal on his death, 1770, unsigned, bewigged bust r., wearing gown and chain of office, rev. Justice, holding scales and Liberty Cap on staff, seated on books, one the 'MAGNA CARTA', 35mm. (BHM.142, R3), metal flaw within exergue on the reverse, very fine, extremely rare as a silver medal
*ex Baldwin's vault
The medal has a connection with Jamaica as Beckford, whose father was Governor of the Island, was born there and his later wealth derived from his inherited plantations there. Beckford was famously a supporter of John Wilkes and the words of his outspoken reproof to George III, on the occasion of the City of London address to the king in 1770, are inscribed in gilt on his monument in the Guildhall. He was the builder of Fonthill Splendens [later Fonthill Abbey], and father of the profligate William Thomas Beckford. (120 - 150 GBP)
*ex Baldwin's vault
The medal has a connection with Jamaica as Beckford, whose father was Governor of the Island, was born there and his later wealth derived from his inherited plantations there. Beckford was famously a supporter of John Wilkes and the words of his outspoken reproof to George III, on the occasion of the City of London address to the king in 1770, are inscribed in gilt on his monument in the Guildhall. He was the builder of Fonthill Splendens [later Fonthill Abbey], and father of the profligate William Thomas Beckford. (120 - 150 GBP)