1833 Bronze Medal Franklin Montyon

Coin Details

Auction Record

$192 MS62 11-21-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

This 1833 bronze medal connects Benjamin Franklin with the Montyon Prize, a prestigious French award established by Baron de Montyon for advancements in moral philosophy, medicine, and other fields. Franklin was enormously popular in France, where he served as American ambassador (1778-1785), and his scientific reputation made him one of the most admired individuals in French intellectual circles. The 1833 date places this during the July Monarchy when Franklin's reputation as a symbol of democratic enlightenment was particularly resonant. Medal collecting has experienced renewed interest in recent decades as numismatists have recognized these pieces as historical artifacts deserving the same scholarly attention given to coins and currency. French-produced Franklin medals constitute a rich collecting field, documenting the deep cultural connection between the founding father and America's first ally.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. Benjamin Franklin / Montyon Prize medal, 1833 bronze. French-produced Franklin medals are actively collected.

Cross References

PCGS #926009; Benjamin Franklin; Montyon Prize; 1833; Bronze