King James I English Laurel coin, Richmond Island, 1623

Contributed by Maine Historical Society

King James I English Laurel coin, Richmond Island, 1623

Purchase a reproduction of this item on VintageMaineImages.com.

Description

This Laurel coin, an English gold coin with a value of twenty shillings, was part of a trove of coins hidden by Walter Bagnall on Richmond Island.

Bagnall was the first European settler on Richmond Island, near Cape Elizabeth, in 1628. 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."

The coin was named for the depiction of King James' head decorated with a laurel crown. The text stamped on the coin read "JACOBUS.D.B.MAG. BRIT.ET.HIB.REX.," or "James by the grace of God King of England..."

View/Add Comments


About This Item

  • Title: King James I English Laurel coin, Richmond Island, 1623
  • Creation Date: 1623
  • Subject Date: 1623
  • Location: Richmond Island, Cumberland County, ME
  • Media: Gold
  • Dimensions: 3.3 cm x 3.3 cm
  • Local Code: 819*25
  • Object Type: Physical Object

Cross Reference Searches

Standardized Subject Headings

People

Other Keywords


For more information about this item, contact:

Maine Historical Society
485 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.

How to cite content on this site


More to Consider


Please post your comment below to share with others. If you'd like to privately share a comment or correction with MMN staff, please send us a message with this link.