Lot 3: The Countess of Lucan (Lady Margaret Bingham) (British, d. 1814) Admiral Sir John Hawkins (1532–1595), wearing black doublet and white semi-circular lawn collar

Admiral Sir John Hawkins (1532–1595), wearing black doublet and white semi-circular lawn collar.
Signed on the obverse with monogram ML and inscribed Admiral Hawkins. temυo ElizυA the reverse inscribed, The original/ by Hoskins in the/ Possesion of/ Mr Northcote/ of Devonshire, gilt-metal mount.
Oval, 64mm (2 1/2in) high

In 1562 John Hawkins became the first Englishman to start capturing people in Sierra Leone and selling them as slaves to Spanish settlers in the Caribbean. In 1571 Hawkins was involved in a plot with Philip II to assassinate Elizabeth I. However, he changed sides and his information helped William Cecil to have the main conspirators arrested and executed. He was rewarded by being appointed Treasurer of the Navy. For his role in the victory against the Spanish Armada, Hawkins was knighted by Elizabeth I.