1629 Medal Betts-23

Coin Details

Description

This 1629 medal, Betts-23, dates from a year of significant Dutch military activity in the Americas. In 1629, the Dutch West India Company captured the Spanish Silver Fleet under Admiral Piet Heyn, one of the most spectacular naval victories of the era, and Dutch forces were expanding operations in Brazil. The medal documents aggressive Dutch expansion that temporarily made the Republic the dominant European power in the Western Atlantic. The capture of the Silver Fleet yielded over 11 million guilders in treasure, funding further military operations and enriching the Company's shareholders. The tradition of striking commemorative medals for New World events began with Spanish and Portuguese pieces in the sixteenth century, expanded through Dutch and French production in the seventeenth, and reached its peak with British issues during the colonial wars. This was the only time the entire Spanish treasure fleet was successfully captured.

Rarity Notes

Very rare. Medals from this pivotal year seldom appear in commerce.

Cross References

Betts-23