Knights of Malta
La Vallette Medal
This medal was engraved by Federico Cocciola and measures 50mm in diameter. The obverse of the medal shows the bare headed and bearded bust of Jean De La Vallette to the right, wearing the cloak with the eight pointed Maltese cross. The reverse shows David, brandishing sword, standing right over the fallen Goliath. To the right are fleeing figures and behind, the sea with warships to the left and galleon above.
This fine and rare medal commemorates the Great Expulsion and defeat of the Turks in 1565, also known as the Great Siege of Malta. Such medals were placed in the foundation stone of the city capital 'Valletta'.
The condition of this medal is Extremely Fine ++ and is unusally 'Not' punched at the twelve o'clock mark. A fine example of this rare and early medal.
Price Lm 650, Euro 1525.00, USD 2000
Reference: Calleja Schembri page 196 medal No 3, Not listed in RS