1739 Bronze Medal Admiral Vernon, A-C PBv 38-KK

Coin Details

Auction Record

$360 XF40 02-21-2024 Stack's Bowers

Description

This 1739 bronze medal, cataloged as Adams-Chao PBv 38-KK, pairs obverse die 38 with double-letter reverse KK. The thirty-eighth portrait die in the PBv series approaches the outer limits of recorded Vernon medal die production. At this production level, each new obverse die was cut by a single workshop that specialized in high-volume Vernon medal production and maintained a systematic approach to die pairing. Reverse KK is deep in the double-letter sequence, progressing well beyond the initial alphabetical run. Struck in copper alloy (AE), the PBv 38-KK variety is exceptionally scarce and may survive in only a handful of examples. The progression of PBv obverse dies from the single digits to the high thirties spans the entire arc of the Vernon medal craze, from the initial excitement of late 1739 through the sustained commercial production that followed. Each die pairing in the high thirties represents the twilight of this extraordinary medallic phenomenon.

Rarity Notes

Extremely rare. One of the very highest PBv die pairings, approaching the absolute maximum of recorded production.

Cross References

A-C PBv 38-KK; PCGS #930190