$136,000.00 USD
The 1656 Cromwell Gold Broad is a magnificent artifact from a revolutionary chapter in British history. Struck during the Commonwealth era, when Oliver Cromwell ruled as Lord Protector, this rare gold coin encapsulates the political upheaval and ambition of a nation undergoing profound transformation.
The obverse features a powerful, lifelike portrait of Cromwell, styled after the classical imagery of Roman emperors to assert his authority and vision for a united England, Scotland, and Ireland. The Latin inscription, OLIVAR D G R P ANG SCO HIB &c PRO (Oliver, by the Grace of God, Protector of England, Scotland, Ireland, etc.), reflects Cromwell’s elevated status in the absence of a monarchy, highlighting his role as a unifying figure during a turbulent era.
On the reverse, the arms of the Commonwealth are prominently displayed, combining the shields of England and Ireland. The surrounding palm and olive branches symbolize strength and peace, while the Latin motto PAX QUAERITUR BELLO ("Peace is sought through war") poignantly captures the challenges of Cromwell’s governance as he sought to secure stability in the wake of civil war.
Graded PR61 by PCGS, this example of the Cromwell Gold Broad is a remarkable survivor of a coinage intended more for presentation and diplomacy than for circulation. Its proof designation highlights its sharp details and mirror-like surfaces, underscoring the exceptional craftsmanship of the period. Gold Broads from this era are extremely rare, with only a limited number struck, further enhancing their desirability among collectors.
Owning this coin is akin to holding a piece of history—a tangible connection to the brief but impactful Commonwealth period, a time when England stood at the crossroads of monarchy and republicanism. For numismatists and history enthusiasts, the 1656 Cromwell Gold Broad is a prized artifact, representing a bold experiment in governance and a fascinating legacy of the man who reshaped British history.
