1739 Bronze Medal Admiral Vernon, A-C PBvi 5-F

Coin Details

Auction Record

$192 VF Details 02-21-2024 Stack's Bowers

Description

This 1739 bronze medal, cataloged as Adams-Chao PBvi 5-F, pairs obverse die 5 with reverse die F. The PBvi 5 obverse offers a fifth distinct interpretation of Vernon's portrait framed by naval and military icons. The F reverse — noted as the sixth lettered reverse in the subgroup — carries Porto Bello imagery that differs from the A through D reverses. The progression of reverse dies through the alphabet demonstrates that die sinkers continued producing new reverses to pair with existing and new obverses, creating an expanding matrix of varieties. This practice served both artistic and commercial purposes: variety encouraged collectors to seek multiple examples, while new reverses kept the product line fresh. Struck in copper alloy (AE), this medal participated in the robust secondary market for Vernon medals, which continued for months after the initial burst of production in late 1739. Taverns, coffee houses, and political clubs were primary distribution points.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. The PBvi 5-F combination represents a standard middle-series variety.

Cross References

A-C PBvi 5-F; PCGS #930209