Royal Mint Medals

Royal Mint Gold Medals

The Royal Mint undertook a large number of private medal commissions during the 18th century, with contracted engravers happy for the opportunity to practice their skills. A Royal Warrant was issued as early as 1706 confirming that any staff of the Mint had permission to take on these private contracts.

Eventually official medals were struck by the Mint. With the Napoleonic War waging across Europe, The Royal Mint was instructed to produce the various military medals to be awarded following the Battle of Waterloo. As new monarchs gained the throne, medals were struck to celebrate the coronations of 1821, 1831 and 1838.

1851 marked the end of private work, with Mint workers expected to devote their time solely to official Mint business, and not towards private income. With the British Empire stretching across the globe, service and gallantry medals became a common item for the Mint’s output.

The end of World War I saw medal production increase once more, but the days of William Wyon (considered one of the most talented medallists) had long gone, and fewer designs were made. The Mint is still encouraged however to take on private contracts for medals in other countries, as well as produce artistic commemorative medals.