1739 Bronze Medal Admiral Vernon, A-C NLv 5-D

Coin Details

Auction Record

$2,040 MS62 08-24-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

This 1739 bronze medal, cataloged as Adams-Chao NLv 5-D, is a No Location variety featuring Vernon's portrait on the obverse paired with reverse die D. The NLv 5 obverse die presents a distinctive rendering of Vice-Admiral Vernon, while the D reverse carries different imagery or text than the other reverse dies in this subgroup. Each die pairing in the Adams-Chao catalog represents a unique combination, and the 5-D pairing indicates this is one of the later-numbered die combinations, suggesting the die sinker produced multiple obverse dies to meet demand. Struck in copper alloy (AE), this medal was part of the commercial medal industry that flourished in England during 1739-1741. Medal sellers, tavern keepers, and political organizers all purchased Vernon medals to distribute or sell, creating sustained demand that kept die sinkers busy producing new varieties. The sheer number of die combinations in the NLv subgroup alone — at least eight obverse dies — testifies to the extraordinary public appetite for Vernon medals.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. Higher die numbers in the NLv series suggest smaller production runs as demand waned.

Cross References

A-C NLv 5-D; PCGS #922846