This badge is thought to be a satirical badge criticising King Edward II’s former queen, Isabella. Isabella had deposed her husband and then ruled as regent in the name of her son, the young king, Edward III. She became very unpopular, mainly due to her greed, with an opposition forming to her rule, led in part by Henry of Lancaster. The Lancastrians were at this time promoting the unofficial cult of ‘Saint’ Thomas of Lancaster - executed for treason in 1322 and these satirical badges may have been produced alongside Thomas of Lancaster pilgrim badges.
The badge can be seen to be depicting Queen Isabella, with her powerless son, the young King Edward III, kneeling before her. Isabella holds out her hand for money while threatening Edward with a big stick!

Based on an original in the British Museum.

c.1327 -1330

50mm x 76mm