1756 Silver Medal Betts-400, Kittanning

Coin Details

Description

This 1756 silver medal (Betts-400) commemorates the Destruction of Kittanning, a pivotal event in the Pennsylvania frontier during the French and Indian War. On September 8, 1756, Lieutenant Colonel John Armstrong led a force of 300 Pennsylvania provincial troops in a surprise dawn attack on the Delaware Indian village of Kittanning on the Allegheny River, which had served as a base for devastating raids on the Pennsylvania frontier. The destruction of Kittanning was one of the first significant colonial offensive successes in the war and provided a much-needed morale boost after the string of defeats in 1755-1756. Medallic commemoration of colonial events was not limited to military victories — treaties, explorations, trading company foundings, missionary activities, and colonial administrative milestones all received medallic recognition. The City of Philadelphia awarded Armstrong a medal for this action, and the event is commemorated in the seal of Armstrong County, Pennsylvania.

Rarity Notes

Original 1756 silver. Commemorates significant Pennsylvania frontier action. Rare.

Cross References

Betts-400; Kittanning Destroyed 1756; John Armstrong; French and Indian War; Pennsylvania frontier