(1759) Bronze Medal Betts-417, Guadaloupe

Coin Details

Auction Record

$3,360 MS64RB 08-24-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

Betts-417 in bronze commemorates the British capture of Guadeloupe in 1759, a significant Caribbean victory during the Seven Years' War. While the campaign in Canada captured the most attention, the conquest of France's wealthy sugar islands was equally important to British strategic and economic interests. Guadeloupe was captured by a combined naval and military force in May 1759 after a campaign that began in January. The island's sugar plantations were enormously valuable, and the capture prompted a famous debate in Britain about whether to keep Guadeloupe or Canada at the eventual peace settlement -- a debate that highlighted the perceived greater economic value of a small sugar island over the vast but undeveloped territories of Canada. The British ultimately chose Canada, a decision that shaped the future of North America. This medal documents the Caribbean dimension of the Seven Years' War.

Rarity Notes

Bronze Guadeloupe captured medal. Important Caribbean Seven Years War piece. Scarce.

Cross References

Betts-417; PCGS #921155