Skip to main content
Advanced Search
D2006-CMD-485
Beggar's Badge
D2006-CMD-485

Beggar's Badge

Date1566
OriginEurope, Netherlands
MediumGold
DimensionsOH: 28 mm; OW: 20 mm (ovoid- loop included)
Credit LineGift of the Lasser family
Object number2008-46,221
Label TextA small group of curious medals, collectively known as "Beggars' Badges" are amongst history's truly notable emblems of the never-ending quest for religious and political liberty. Created between 1566 and 1580 by Protestant Dutch patriots, Beggar's Badges became widely worn patriotic symbols in their protracted war for freedom from Spain.

Bearing a portrait of King Philip of Spain on the obverse and two hands clasped inside the opening of a beggar's bag on the reverse, this well executed badge also carries the inscription "In all fidelity to the King, even to carrying the beggar's sack."