(1776) Silver Libertas Americana Medal - 2005 Restrike

Coin Details

Auction Record

$216 MS61 04-12-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

A silver (Ag, chemical symbol for silver) restrike of the Libertas Americana medal produced by the Monnaie de Paris in 2005. This continues the annual restrike program, building on the 2000 and 2004 silver issues to offer new vintages of Dupre's celebrated 1783 masterwork. The enduring popularity of the Libertas Americana design across multiple restrike years is testament to its artistic quality and historical significance. Dupre's obverse Liberty portrait, with its naturalistic flowing hair and classical profile, broke new ground in medallic portraiture when it appeared in 1783. The reverse allegory — Minerva (France) protecting infant Hercules (America) from the British lion — remains a masterclass in narrative composition. Benjamin Franklin conceived the reverse allegory himself, demonstrating his remarkable versatility as diplomat, scientist, and cultural figure. He drew from the classical myth of Hercules strangling serpents in his cradle, adapting it to represent America's victories at Saratoga and Yorktown while the French alliance provided crucial protection. The 2005 silver restrike represents another vintage year in the Monnaie de Paris program. Each annual issue becomes its own collectible, with date-specific production numbers determining relative scarcity. Silver versions from any year are produced in smaller quantities than their bronze counterparts.

Rarity Notes

Moderately scarce. The 2005 silver restrike continues the annual program with limited production.

Cross References

Betts-615 (original); Monnaie de Paris 2005 silver restrike