1779 Bronze Medal Betts-565, Stoney Point Silvered Restrike

Coin Details

Auction Record

$18,000 MS62 11-21-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

This 1779 silvered bronze restrike of the Stony Point medal (Betts-565) features a silver-washed surface over a bronze core, giving the appearance of a silver medal at lower cost. Silvered medals occupy a middle ground between plain bronze and solid silver, providing an attractive silver appearance for collectors or recipients who wanted the prestige of silver without the full expense. The silvered finish also helps preserve the surface detail, as the silver layer resists the green patina that develops on exposed bronze. Colonial medals served multiple functions simultaneously: as propaganda tools promoting imperial policy, as diplomatic gifts establishing relationships with indigenous peoples and rival powers, and as commemorative art preserving historical memory. This restrike of the Stony Point medal commemorates General Wayne's brilliant night bayonet assault, one of the finest small-unit actions of the entire American Revolution.

Rarity Notes

Silvered bronze restrike. Silvered surface over bronze core. Scarce.

Cross References

Betts-565; Stony Point 1779; silvered restrike; Anthony Wayne