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1739 Bronze Medal Admiral Vernon, A-C PBv 30-BB

Strike Type
1739 Bronze Medal Admiral Vernon, A-C PBv 30-BB

Coin Details

Year
1739
Denomination
Medals
Strike Type
Regular Strike
Series
Admiral Vernon Medals
Composition
N/A

Auction Record

$480 VF30 02-21-2024 Stack's Bowers

Description

This 1739 bronze medal, cataloged as Adams-Chao PBv 30-BB, shares the thirtieth obverse die with PBv 30-AA but pairs it with double-letter reverse BB. The existence of two double-letter reverse pairings for obverse 30 shows that this particular portrait die was prolific, being paired with at least two late-phase reverses. Reverse die BB carries different Porto Bello imagery than AA, giving the shared obverse 30 portrait two distinct presentations on the reverse. The PBv 30 obverse die must have been of exceptional quality to withstand the striking pressure of producing multiple varieties — dies degraded with use, and die sinkers relied on well-hardened steel and skilled heat treatment to maximize die life. Struck in copper alloy (AE), the PBv 30-BB variety is a companion piece to 30-AA, and collectors pursuing complete die pairing documentation seek both varieties. The dual pairing of obverse 30 makes it one of the most important anchor points in the advanced PBv die sequence.

Rarity Notes

Rare. An alternate reverse for the high-numbered PBv 30 obverse die.

Cross References

A-C PBv 30-BB; PCGS #930189

External References

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