Coronation of George I, 1660-1727, King of England 1714 [obverse] 1714

This medallion, depicting the Coronation of George I, was made by Nicolaus Seeländer around 1714, likely in silver or a similar metal. The crisp detail achieved in the portrait and surrounding inscriptions speaks to the skill of the die-cutter, who would have painstakingly carved the design in hardened steel. This master die would then be used to strike the medallions. The material itself, whether silver or a base metal, elevates this from a simple commemorative token to a valuable object, reflecting George I’s status. Notice the contrast between the smooth, polished surfaces and the intricately textured hair and clothing. This contrast, achieved through careful manipulation of the die, adds depth and visual interest. The repetitive process of striking these medallions points to the increasing mechanization of production in the 18th century, even while the initial die-cutting remained a highly skilled craft. Considering the material and making of this medallion allows us to see it not just as a portrait of a king, but as a product of its time, reflecting both artistic skill and emerging industrial processes.