1658 Silver Medal Betts-39, Dampville

Coin Details

Description

This 1658 silver medal (Betts-39) is an original striking of the Dampville medal, one of the earliest entries in the Betts catalog. The medal honors the Duc de Dampville (Henri de Montmorency-Damville) in connection with French colonial administration in North America during the mid-seventeenth century. As an original 1658 production rather than a later restrike, this medal is among the oldest surviving pieces of numismatic Americana, predating the founding of most English colonies in North America. The silver composition and original striking status make this exceptionally valuable compared to the later Paris Mint restrikes in bronze (PCGS #954362) and silver (PCGS #954357). Few collectors have the opportunity to acquire original seventeenth-century medals relating to American colonial history.

Rarity Notes

Original 1658 striking in silver. One of the earliest medals in the Betts catalog. Extremely rare.

Cross References

Betts-39; Dampville; French colonial America; original 1658 striking