From the reign of Elizabeth I (1558-1603) notable successes of the Royal Navy were occasionally celebrated by commemorative medals, which gave great scope for images of ships in sail and naval battles. In Elizabeth's own reign, England was twice threatened with a Spanish invasion. The defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588 was marked by the issue of gold and silver medals, attributed to the famous painter and goldsmith Nicholas Hilliard (1547-1619). It is believed to be the first England's naval award medal.
Beautiful specimen from the ex Antonio B. Spada collection, Inv. 39 /currently in the collection of the Musée de la Légion d'honneur, Paris/.
Gold, enamel and pearl.
Obverse
Bust of Queen Elizabeth, almost full face, crowned, ruff open in front, erect behind, gown puffed in diamond-shaped pattern and jeweled, inscribed
"DITIOR . IN . TOTO . NON . ALTER . CIRCVLVS . ORBE." = No Other Circle in the Whole World More Rich.
reverse
A bay tree (believed to be a protection from storms) uninjured by lightning and winds, flourishing upon an island, inscribed
"NON . IPSA . PERICVLA . TANGVNT." = Not Even Perils Touch It.
Two ships in the distance. Initials "E.R." upon the field on either side of the tree.