Item 105045 - King Charles I English Unite coin, Richmond Island, 1625
- Item 105045 - King Charles I English Unite coin, Richmond Island, 1625
- Contributed by Maine Historical Society
- Item 105045
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Image Info This English Unite coin, a denomination of twenty shillings, was found in Richmond Island in the cache of coins hidden by Walter Bagnall.
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Bagnall was the first European settler on Richmond Island, near Cape Elizabeth, in 1628. He became wealthy by cheating the Wabanaki, specifically the female leader Warrabitta’s family, at his trading post. According to Massachusetts Governor Winthrop, "Bagnall...was a wicked fellow, and had much wronged the Indians."
The obverse of the coin depicted the King's head crowned, with the text "CAROLUS D.G. MAG. BR. IR. ET. HI. REX." along the rim. The reverse showed a shield and the date 1625, as well as the motto "CHRISTO AUSPICE REGNO."