(1779) Silver Medal J-MI-5, Betts-575 Major Henry Lee

Coin Details

Auction Record

$33,600 AU55 04-03-2024 Stack's Bowers

Description

This silver Comitia Americana medal, cross-referenced as both Julian MI-5 (J-MI-5) and Betts-575, honors Major Henry "Light Horse Harry" Lee for the Paulus Hook raid of 1779. The Julian Military (MI) catalog reference places this within the comprehensive catalog of U.S. military medals. Silver was the standard composition for Comitia Americana medals presented to the honorees, and this silver striking represents the authorized presentation format. Lee's daring night raid on the British garrison at Paulus Hook demonstrated the aggressive spirit of the Continental Army and earned him one of the few Congressional military honors awarded during the Revolution. The dual catalog references (Julian and Betts) reflect this medal's importance across multiple numismatic reference systems. Silver Comitia Americana medals are among the most historically significant objects in American numismatics.

Rarity Notes

Silver Comitia Americana medal. Julian MI-5. Extremely important Revolutionary War piece. Very scarce.

Cross References

Betts-575; J-MI-5; PCGS #935308