College of Arms quincentenary 1484 to 1984

In 1984, the Royal Mint was commissioned to strike medals (medallions) on the quincentenary (500th anniversary) of the College of Arms. The College of Arms, or Heralds' College, is a royal corporation consisting of professional officers of arms, with jurisdiction over England, Wales, Northern Ireland and some Commonwealth realms. The heralds are appointed by the British Sovereign and are delegated authority to act on behalf of the Crown in all matters of heraldry, the granting of new coats of arms, genealogical research and the recording of pedigrees.

 

The obverse of the medal is inscribed "RICARDUS III. REX. ANGLIAE. ETC. FUNDATOR. COLLEGII. ARMORUM. 1484." = Richard III, King of England, Founder of College of Arms 1484"

 

The reverse shows an adaption of the coat of arms for the College of Arms with inscription "COLLEGE OF ARMS QUINCENTENARY".

 

This is a large medal, measuring 2½ inches (6.3 cm) in diameter, weighing 126.6 grams or 4.07 troy ounces of .925 silver.

 

Apparently,

250 medals were struck in solid 9K gold;

1,000 medals were struck in solid .925 sterling silver;

1,000 medals were struck in gold-plated metal;

2,500 medals were struck in silver-plated metal;

5,000 medals were struck in toned bronze

Done