(1779) Bronze Medal Betts-568, Restrike Capture of the HMS Serapis

Coin Details

Auction Record

$384 SP62 05-29-2019 Stack's Bowers

Description

This bronze restrike of Betts-568 reproduces the John Paul Jones Comitia Americana medal in copper alloy rather than the original silver. The bronze composition makes this the most affordable way to own a genuine Paris Mint striking of one of America's most celebrated military medals. Augustin Dupre's masterful design loses none of its artistic impact in bronze -- the obverse portrait of Jones retains its noble bearing, and the reverse battle scene between Bonhomme Richard and HMS Serapis remains dramatically compelling. Bronze restrikes were produced in larger quantities than silver versions, making them more readily available to collectors while still carrying the prestige of Paris Mint production from the original eighteenth-century dies. The Comitia Americana medals, of which the Jones medal is the most famous, represent the Continental Congress's highest military honors, equivalent to the Congressional Gold Medals of later periods.

Rarity Notes

Bronze restrike, most common composition for this design. Paris Mint production from original dies. Widely collected.

Cross References

Betts-568; PCGS #707480