1739 Copper Medal Betts-216, Vernon Medal

Coin Details

Description

This copper medal, Betts-216, is a copper variant of the Vernon medal series. Copper was used alongside brass and bath metal for Vernon medals intended for popular distribution. The Vernon medal phenomenon represents one of the earliest examples of mass-produced commemorative medals in the English-speaking world, predating the similarly prolific medal production of the American Revolution by four decades. The sheer variety of Vernon medal types — with different portraits, inscriptions, and designs — indicates that numerous private manufacturers competed to supply public demand, creating a de facto open-market commemorative medal industry centered on colonial military themes. The medallic record of colonial America provides evidence that standard historical accounts sometimes overlook, documenting diplomatic encounters, treaty negotiations, and military engagements through the perspectives of the participating European powers.

Rarity Notes

Common to scarce depending on specific variety.

Cross References

Betts-216