(1779) Bronze Medal Betts-567, Original Dies John Stewart at Stony Point

Coin Details

Auction Record

$900,000 MS62 04-03-2024 Stack's Bowers

Description

Betts-567 in bronze from original dies is the Comitia Americana medal honoring Lieutenant Colonel John Stewart for his role at the Battle of Stony Point on July 16, 1779. Stewart commanded one of the two assault columns during General Wayne's brilliant nighttime bayonet attack on the British fortification overlooking the Hudson River. The surprise assault captured the garrison with minimal American casualties, providing a much-needed morale boost after a difficult period of the war. The Continental Congress authorized medals for the principal commanders of the Stony Point assault as part of the Comitia Americana series. The "Original Dies" designation confirms this was struck at the Paris Mint from the dies created in the eighteenth century, making it a genuine product of the original authorization. Stony Point medals document one of the most daring tactical operations of the American Revolution.

Rarity Notes

Bronze from original dies. Comitia Americana Stony Point medal. Very scarce original striking.

Cross References

Betts-567; PCGS #935305