STORY BEHIND THE ART
Wear a piece of history!
As you well know, I am absolutely enamored with the place we call home. New England not only is home to stunning wilderness landscapes, but also imbued with a rich history. I love learning about yesteryear, specifically how nature & the past coincide. In my spare time, I enjoy seeking inspiration through perusing various articles & books on the subject. This summer, I happened upon an exciting revelation: the very first coinage used in early North America bore a favorite familiar symbol…THE PINE TREE!
Once my interest was peaked by pine, I delved deep, learning that the very first coins EVER used in the English-American colonies were the Pine Tree Shillings of New England. They were created & commissioned in 1652 by the Massachusetts General Court. These simple silver coins were hand struck by a hammer using a hand carved mold. Each featured an elaborate pine design & intricate border that read “New England Masathvsets.” English coins always featured an image of a king, but these replaced that image with a pine: a symbol of the land & newfound freedom. The Pine Tree Shillings were were the primary minted currency from 1667-1682! The last photo is an original coin found in Paul Revere’s time capsule that was placed under the Old State House in Boston in 1795, & opened in 2014. How neat is that?!
As soon as I learned about these, I was inspired beyond belief & knew they had to become jewelry. I created these commemorative medallions based if of these coins, but with my own spin: ample texture, simple bails & a bit of whimsy.
The larger XII twelve pence medallion hangs upon a 22” decorative chain, with the III three pence coin on a 18” beaded chain. Emblems made to remember, layer & adorn. I can hardly contain my excitement for these, as they’ve been a long time in the making. Wearable pieces of New England’s rich history, from my hands to yours. ✨
ITEM DETAILS
- .925 Sterling Silver
- Coins measure 1.5cm and 2cm in diameter respectively
- Small Coin Strung on an 18" sterling beaded chain
- Large Coin Strung on a 20" sterling decorative chain for layering.
- Tagged with my maker's marks for authenticity
- Handmade in Maine in my home studio
A NOTE ON WEAR
I have chosen high quality materials to create a piece of artful jewelry that will last a lifetime. Although crafted with the adventurous spirit in mind, please take care while wearing my pieces as natural stones can be delicate. To prolong the life of your piece, I suggest you remove it while swimming, hiking, rock climbing, cliff jumping, skydiving or whatever other crazy and rigorous adventure you find yourself on!
STAY IN TOUCH
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Instagram: @thewildpine
Email: thewildpine@gmail.com
© The Wild Pine 2023
