(1776) Medal Baker-49J Bronze Washington Before Boston

Coin Details

Auction Record

$1,440 SP63 06-21-2018 Stack's Bowers

Description

A bronze Washington Before Boston medal cataloged as Baker-49J, representing a variant striking within the broad family of this iconic Comitia Americana medal. The obverse carries the familiar uniformed bust of George Washington facing right with the Latin legend crediting the Continental Congress and identifying Washington as Supreme Commander and Defender of Liberty. The reverse shows the dramatic scene of Washington directing the siege that led to the British evacuation of Boston on March 17, 1776, with the retreating fleet visible in the harbor. Baker-49J is distinguished from other die marriages in the series by specific die characteristics and striking details cataloged in the Baker reference. The Washington Before Boston medal exists in numerous die states, restrike generations, and metal compositions spanning from the original 1780s Paris Mint productions through various nineteenth and twentieth century reissues, making the Baker numbering system essential for identifying specific varieties. Bronze composition, approximately 68mm.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. This Baker variety is less frequently encountered than the more common restrike editions.

Cross References

Baker-49J; Musante GW-09 series; Betts-542 (type); Julian MI-1 (type)