This is a fine example of the work of Jan Roettier, the eldest son of Philip, an Antwerp goldsmith and medallist, who had helped the exiled king, Charles II, with loans. Jan and his brothers were invited by the king to work in the Royal Mint: Jan came to England in 1661, became Chief Engraver to the Mint in 1670, and remained in office until 1698. It is thought that the king's face on the obverse of this medal was the work of Joseph, his middle brother.

The allegorical group on the reverse of the medal has Justice at the centre, holding her scales and leaning on the fasces (a Roman symbol of authority consisting of a bundle of rods around an axe), presenting an olive branch to Britannia, who is seated to the left with her shield and spear. Justice is flanked by Minerva bearing a handful of corn stalks and Hercules with his lion-skin and club, while Fame trumpets the happiness of the people. The 2-line inscription in the exergue below reads FELICITAS.BRITANNIAE. 29.MAII.1660: the 'Happiness of Britain' on the day on which the king entered London, 29 May 1660 (his thirtieth birthday), bringing, the medal shows, justice, peace and plenty to the nation.

Text adapted from Charles II: Art & Power (London, 2017)