1739 Bath Metal Medal Betts-201, Admiral Vernon

Coin Details

Auction Record

$541 AU53 04-17-2019 Heritage Auctions

Description

This bath metal medal, Betts-201, is one of the many Admiral Vernon Porto Bello varieties. Bath metal, a brass alloy, was the most common composition for Vernon medals. Vernon's capture of Porto Bello with only six warships was a propaganda triumph that came at a time when Britain was eager for military victories against Spain. The popularity of Vernon medals was unprecedented in English numismatic history, with hundreds of varieties produced by private manufacturers. Collectors have pursued Betts medals since the nineteenth century, when numismatists first recognized these pieces as a coherent body of historical documentation worthy of systematic study and cataloging. The medals served as expressions of patriotic fervor, political support for Vernon (who was also a Member of Parliament), and commercial products capitalizing on public enthusiasm for the war.

Rarity Notes

Common. Bath metal Vernon medals are the most frequently encountered Betts medals.

Cross References

Betts-201