(1759) Bronze Medal Betts-419, British Victories

Coin Details

Auction Record

$1,020 MS62BN 08-24-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

Betts-419 in bronze is a British Victories medal from 1759, the annus mirabilis that saw British arms triumphant across the globe. The year 1759 produced victories at Quebec, Minden, Lagos, Quiberon Bay, and numerous smaller engagements that established British military supremacy over France. In North America, the capture of Quebec by General James Wolfe (who died in the battle) was the most dramatic victory, but the campaign also included the taking of Fort Niagara, Crown Point, and other French positions. Betts-419 celebrates these collective triumphs, presenting the totality of British success rather than focusing on any single engagement. The bronze composition indicates broad commercial production for the patriotic public. The British Victories medal format was popular with medal makers who could sell a single design celebrating multiple events rather than producing separate medals for each engagement.

Rarity Notes

Bronze British Victories medal for 1759. Part of the annus mirabilis celebration. Moderately scarce.

Cross References

Betts-419; PCGS #613672