PHILIPPINES. Filipino Volunteer mobilization Silvered Bronze Medal

PHILIPPINES. Filipino Volunteer mobilization Silvered Bronze Medal, 1897. Alfonso XIII. NGC AU-55. Honeycutt-53; Basso-Unlisted; Guerra-774; Reynolds-9/10. Weight: 25.7 gms.; Dimensions: 47 x 35 mm. Obverse: Crowned pillars and globes design, legend around "ESPANA.A SUS LEALES HIJOS LOS VOLUNTARIOS FILIPINOS."; Reverse: Seven-line inscription "1897/ VOLUNTARIOS/ MOVILIZADOS/ POR/ DECRETO/ DE/ 16 DE OCTUBRE". This nicely preserved piece displays pleasing old cabinet patina with iridescent hues that pop out when tilted in the light. The strike is bold with crisp design features and relatively smooth surfaces. A gently handled example with a pleasing appearance and good eye appeal. A seldom encountered medal that should be considered VERY RARE and a highly desirable piece of numismatic history. This medal represents the declining power and influence Spain held over the Filipino people. The volunteer units actively fought against revolutionary forces and consisted of Spanish regular troops, local militias, and native volunteers that supported the Catholic Church and the colonial government. Their forces were an estimated 40,000 strong consisting of roughly 14,000 militia and volunteers and around 26,000 regular troops. Ultimately, the Spanish were defeated and essentially handed over the Philippines to the United States of America after the "Mock Battle of Manila Bay". Estimate: $700 - $1,000. Provenance: From the Dr. Earl Honeycutt Collection. To view all items from the Dr. Earl Honeycutt Collection, click

Estimate:$420

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