A c.1659 medal marking the destruction of one of Prince Rupert’s ships – £8000 at Dix Noonan Webb.
Subsequently, Rupert took most of the fleet to Ireland, although he left behind two vessels including the 450-ton Antelope.
In April 1649 the Council of State ordered its destruction – an expedition completed under the command of Lt Stephen Rose who burned the vessel as she lay at anchor, in violation of Dutch territorial waters.
Those who took part in the exploit were rewarded with cash prizes and a small oval silver medal, designed by the English medallist Thomas Simon (c.1623-65) with both English and Irish emblems and a scene of an assembled Parliament.
Only six examples are known. One of them was offered for sale by Dix Noonan Webb in London on October 3, where it took a triple-estimate £8000 (plus 20% buyer’s premium).
