(1779) Gilt Bronze Medal J-NA-1, Restrike Captain John Paul Jones

Coin Details

Description

The circa 1779 gilt bronze restrike of the naval medal cataloged as Julian NA-1 honors Captain John Paul Jones. The gilt finish — gold applied over bronze — creates a luxurious appearance approximating the original gold presentation medal. Gilt examples represent a premium finish tier between standard bronze and solid precious metal. The obverse features Jones's naval portrait enhanced by the golden gilding. The reverse carries imagery of the Bonhomme Richard versus Serapis engagement. The gilding process involves applying thin gold leaf or amalgam to the bronze surface, creating a medal that visually resembles the original gold presentation piece. The original gold medal for Jones was authorized by Congress on October 16, 1787, eight years after the battle, and was struck at the Paris Mint by Augustin Dupre, who also created the Libertas Americana medal. The delay reflected the chaotic state of Continental Congress finances during and immediately after the Revolution. Jones received his medal while serving in the Russian Navy under Empress Catherine the Great.

Rarity Notes

Gilt bronze restrikes are scarcer than standard bronze. The gilding adds a premium finish that was applied to a limited production run.

Cross References

Julian NA-1; PCGS #874964