(1758) Bath Metal Medal Betts-409, Boscawen at Louisbourg

Coin Details

Auction Record

$1,410 XF45 02-16-2017 Heritage Auctions

Description

This brass medal, Betts-409, depicts Boscawen at Louisbourg in bath metal. The combination of Admiral Boscawen's portrait with the Louisbourg fortress theme reflects the joint naval-military nature of the operation. Bath metal, a brass-like alloy, was the standard composition for popular commemorative medals during the Georgian period. The medal celebrates the British naval blockade that was essential to the success of the siege, preventing the French from receiving reinforcements or supplies by sea. The Betts series documents the full arc of European colonialism in the Western Hemisphere, from the earliest Spanish exploration medals through the diplomatic pieces marking American independence. Without Boscawen's naval superiority, the land forces under Amherst could not have maintained the siege long enough to force the fortress's surrender.

Rarity Notes

Rare. Bath metal Boscawen/Louisbourg medal.

Cross References

Betts-409