(1776) Bronze Libertas Americana Medal - 2006 Restrike

Coin Details

Auction Record

$192 MS62 02-15-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

A bronze (AE, from Latin aes) restrike of the Libertas Americana medal produced by the Monnaie de Paris in 2006. Bronze was the most common composition for original 18th-century strikings, making the bronze restrike the most historically appropriate format for experiencing Dupre's celebrated design. The Libertas Americana medal of 1783 is universally recognized as one of the greatest achievements in medallic art. The obverse Liberty portrait influenced not only early American coinage but also French Revolutionary imagery — Dupre's later Marianne designs for the French Republic drew upon the same artistic vocabulary he developed for Franklin's medal. The reverse scene of Minerva defending infant Hercules against the British lion served as both political propaganda and genuine artistic achievement. Bronze Libertas Americana medals, whether original or restrike, develop an attractive patina over time that enhances the sculptural qualities of Dupre's relief work. The Monnaie de Paris, as the successor institution to the French Royal Mint that produced the originals, possesses unique authority and historical continuity in producing these restrikes. Bronze restrikes are the most affordable entry point to the Libertas Americana design and are produced in larger quantities than precious-metal versions. The 2006 bronze restrike appeals to collectors of Americana, medal enthusiasts, and those building date-complete sets of the modern restrike program.

Rarity Notes

Common among restrikes. Bronze was the standard composition for original strikings and remains the most available restrike format.

Cross References

Betts-615 (original); Monnaie de Paris 2006 bronze restrike