Evelyn's Numismata
John Evelyn's 'Numismata' is one of the most important 17th-century books on numismatics, ancient coins, medals, collecting them, and identifying authentic and fakes.This 1697 first edition is illustrated with engravings of medals each with inscriptions and commentary on the figures. While the title of the works refers to both numismatics,which includes coins, the content of Evelyn's treatise focuses primarily on medals alone.

This work though, takes a bizarre turn and covers more than just the study of medals. Evelyn writes about human physiognomy and the importance of the human face which appearson medals and coins. One rather odd section discusses the appearance of a beard on both a man and a woman!

To read the complete item description, see:
1697 1st ed Evelyn Numismata Illustrated MedalsCoins Physiognomy Numismatics (https://schilbantiquarian.com/product/1697-1st-ed-evelyn-numismata-illustrated-medals-coins-physiognomy-numismatics/)

Ménestrier's History of King Louis the Great, Medals, Emblems
A rare history of the reign of King Louis XIV of France by Claude-François Ménestrier, an important Jesuit author. This book, 'History of King Louis the Great,Medals, Emblems' was the first historical account of a modern individual. In this first-hand account, Menestrier used medals, heraldic devices, and emblems drawn from thecollection of Francis de la Chaise. Menestrier was a professor of rhetoric and cared for the organizing of festivals and ceremonies during the passage of Louis XIV to Lyon in1685.

This 1691 is a pirated Dutch edition printed in Amsterdam, even though the title page states Paris. This edition includes five plates that were satirical and 'anti-Louis' innature than did not appear in the Paris edition. (Saffroy). Other plates include views of Places de Victories, arms of Chevaliers of the Ordre du Saint-Esprit and more.

To read the complete item description, see:
1691 History of Louis XIV Illustrated MedalsEmblem Numismatics Coins Menestrier (https://schilbantiquarian.com/product/1691-history-of-louis-xiv-illustrated-medals-emblem-numismatics-coins-menestrier/)

For more works on the topic of numismatics, see:
https://schilbantiquarian.com/page/2/?s=numismatic