1776 (1783) Bronze Medal Betts-615 - Libertas Americana

Coin Details

Description

The bronze Libertas Americana medal is one of the most celebrated pieces in American numismatic history, conceived by Benjamin Franklin and designed by the renowned French medalist Augustin Dupre. Struck at the Paris Mint in 1783, this medal commemorates two pivotal American victories in the Revolutionary War: the Battle of Saratoga on October 17, 1777, and the Siege of Yorktown, which concluded on October 19, 1781. The obverse presents a magnificent bust of Liberty facing left, with flowing hair and a liberty cap on a pole behind her head. The inscription LIBERTAS AMERICANA arcs above, while the date 4 JUIL. 1776 (July 4, 1776) appears below, referencing the Declaration of Independence. Dupre's Liberty portrait is widely considered one of the finest renderings of the allegorical figure in the history of medal art, and it directly influenced later American coin designs including the early federal half cents and large cents. The reverse depicts the infant Hercules strangling two serpents (representing the British armies defeated at Saratoga and Yorktown), while the goddess Minerva — representing France — holds a shield emblazoned with the fleur-de-lis to protect the child from the attacking British lion. The legend NON SINE DIIS ANIMOSUS INFANS ("The infant is not bold without divine aid") acknowledges French military support for American independence. The dates of both battles appear in the exergue. Franklin presented the first strikes to the French king Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette, as well as to key French ministers and diplomats. The original bronze strikes were produced in larger numbers than the silver and are the most commonly encountered format, though all original 1783 strikes are scarce. The medal's design and symbolism have made it an enduring icon of the Franco-American alliance and the founding of the United States.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. Original 1783 bronze strikes are the most available format but still uncommon. Approximately 200-300 original bronzes survive across all conditions. Among the most desirable of all American historical medals.

Cross References

Betts-615; Loubat 12; Fuld FR.ME.AL.3; Greenslet-1