1739 Bath Metal Medal Betts-307, Admiral Vernon

Coin Details

Description

This bath metal medal, Betts-307, is among the higher-numbered Vernon medal varieties in the Betts catalog. As the catalog numbers increase through the 300s, the Vernon varieties begin to include medals depicting events beyond the initial Porto Bello capture, including Vernon's operations at Cartagena and other Caribbean targets. Despite the ultimate failure of the Cartagena expedition in 1741, medal producers continued to celebrate Vernon and the British colonial campaign, reflecting the enduring public fascination with Caribbean warfare and the hope that British arms would eventually prevail against Spain's American empire. The medallic record of colonial America provides evidence that standard historical accounts sometimes overlook, documenting diplomatic encounters, treaty negotiations, and military engagements through the perspectives of the participating European powers. These later varieties document the broader scope of the War of Jenkins' Ear.

Rarity Notes

Common. Higher-numbered Vernon variety.

Cross References

Betts-307