Sir Thomas Fairfax, 1645, a cast silver badge, unsigned, armoured bust almost facing with plain collar and sash across breast, rev. armorial shield, for king and parlmt, sr tho fairfax kn, wreath border both sides, 29 x 24mm, 5.61g (Platt II, p.104, type CC [CC3, this item]; MI I, 317/149; E 147). Nearly very fine, small split between flan and border at 3 o’clock, rare £300-£400

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The Dr Jerome J. Platt Collection of 17th-Century Medals.

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Spink Auction 120, 9-10 July 1997, lot 337

Thomas Fairfax, 3rd Baron Fairfax of Cameron (1612-70), was arguably the most important general of the Civil War. He learned the art of war in the Netherlands under Lord Vere. Fairfax distinguished himself at the Battle of Marston Moor, and after the resignation of Essex in 1645, was appointed Lord General of Parliament’s armies. He won the important battle of Naseby but refused to march against the Scots in 1650 and was deprived of his command in consequence. Fairfax was the most prominent figure in the manoeuvres that brought about the Restoration. Pinkerton in Medallic History describes him as a man of great integrity, and accomplishments; but his simplicity was so great, he was ever the dupe of Cromwell, who quickly reaped the fruit of all his victories.