Contributed by Maine Historical Society
- MMN #105057
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Description
This sixpence coin was part of the cache of coins hidden by Walter Bagnall on Richmond Island, near Cape Elizabeth.
In 1628, Bagnall was the first European settler on Richmond Island. He became wealthy by cheating the Wabanaki, specifically the female leader Warrabitta’s family, at his trading post. According to Massachusetts Governor Winthrop, "Bagnall...was a wicked fellow, and had much wronged the Indians." Bagnall violated his social responsibilities, and as a result, Warrabitta’s brother, Skitterygusset, killed Bagnall in 1631 and burned down the trading post. This act was a redistribution of power and asserted Wabanaki jurisdiction of the area.
The front of the coin depicted Queen Elizabeth's head, crowned, with a rose behind her back. The rim was stamped with the Latin text "ELIZABETH D.G. ANG. FR. ET HI. REGINA," translated as "Elizabeth, by the grace of God, Queen of England, France, & Ireland." The reverse of the coin featured shield, the year 1578, and the text "POSUI DEV. ADIVTOREM. MEV.," or "I have made God my helper."
About This Item
- Title: Queen Elizabeth I English sixpence coin, Richmond Island, 1578
- Creation Date: 1578
- Subject Date: 1578
- Location: Richmond Island, Cumberland County, ME
- Media: Silver
- Local Code: 819*15
- Object Type: Physical Object
Cross Reference Searches
Standardized Subject Headings
- Coins, British
- Coins, English
- Colonists--United States--Maine
- Commerce
- Elizabeth I, Queen of England
- Maine--History--Colonial period, ca. 1600-1775
- Money
- Richmond Island (Me.)
- United States--History--Colonial period, ca. 1600-1775
- Wabanaki Indians
People
Other Keywords
For more information about this item, contact:
Maine Historical Society485 Congress Street, Portland, ME 04101
(207) 774-1822 x230
Website
Use of this Item is not restricted by copyright and/or related rights, but the holding organization is contractually obligated to limit use. For more information, please contact the contributing organization. However, watermarked Maine Memory Network images may be used for educational purposes.
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