1739 Bronze Medal Admiral Vernon, A-C PBvb 15-X Commodore Brown

Coin Details

Auction Record

$336 XF40 02-21-2024 Stack's Bowers

Description

This 1739 bronze medal, cataloged as Adams-Chao PBvb 15-X, carries the highest obverse die number recorded in the Vernon and Brown subgroup, combined with reverse die X — likewise one of the highest-lettered reverses. The PBvb 15-X pairing represents the extreme end of die production for the dual-portrait type, indicating either an exceptionally prolific workshop or a late entrant to the Vernon medal market trying to capture remaining demand. At obverse die 15, the portrait style may diverge significantly from the earlier dies, as later die sinkers worked from copies of copies rather than original source material. Struck in copper alloy (AE), this medal is among the rarest Vernon and Brown varieties. The combination of high obverse and high reverse die numbers indicates this pairing appeared near the very end of production. Collectors specializing in Vernon medals consider the high-numbered PBvb varieties to be among the most challenging pieces to locate.

Rarity Notes

Rare. As the highest-numbered PBvb die pairing, produced in very small quantities.

Cross References

A-C PBvb 15-X; PCGS #930239