1739 Bath Metal Medal Betts-287, Admiral Vernon

Coin Details

Auction Record

$840 AU58 03-05-2019 Stack's Bowers

Description

This bath metal medal, Betts-287, is another Vernon variety from the extensive Porto Bello medal series. The bath metal composition and popular design elements place this firmly in the mass-market segment of Vernon medal production. These medals were sold by vendors, distributed at public celebrations, and traded among collectors and supporters of the war effort. The medals functioned as what would today be called patriotic merchandise, allowing ordinary British subjects to display their support for the colonial war and their admiration for Admiral Vernon's military achievements. The quality of die engraving on the finest Betts medals rivals the best European artistic production of their respective periods, with master medalists achieving remarkable detail in portraits, landscapes, and battle scenes. The series provides an unparalleled window into popular culture during the early Georgian period.

Rarity Notes

Common. Bath metal Vernon variety.

Cross References

Betts-287