(1790) Medal Franklin Memorial Lead Uniface

Coin Details

Description

This lead uniface medal commemorates Benjamin Franklin, who died in Philadelphia on April 17, 1790, at the age of 84. The term "uniface" indicates the medal bears a design on only one side, with the reverse left blank — a characteristic that indicates this may be a trial strike, die proof, or deliberately produced single-sided memorial piece. Lead was commonly used for trial strikings and proofs in the 18th and 19th centuries because the soft metal could capture fine die details without stressing the dies. As a memorial piece, this medal honors one of the most celebrated Americans of the founding era — printer, scientist, diplomat, inventor, and the only person to sign all four of the nation's founding documents (the Declaration of Independence, the Treaty of Alliance with France, the Treaty of Paris, and the Constitution). Franklin's death in 1790 prompted mourning medals and commemorative pieces on both sides of the Atlantic, reflecting his extraordinary international fame. The lead composition and uniface format make this an unusual and technically interesting piece in the Franklin memorial medal series.

Rarity Notes

Rare. Lead uniface memorial medals are uncommon survivors, as the soft metal is easily damaged and many examples have been lost over time.

Cross References

PCGS #925617; Benjamin Franklin Memorial