(1860-1879) Silver Medal Betts-39, Dampville

Coin Details

Description

This silver restrike of the Dampville medal (Betts-39) was produced at the Paris Mint during the 1860-79 restrike period. In silver, this restrike of the 1658 original carries both numismatic and precious metal appeal. The Duc de Dampville's role in French colonial governance of North America predates the more famous figures of the later seventeenth century, making Betts-39 one of the earliest entries in the catalog of medals relating to American colonial history. The silver composition makes this considerably scarcer than the bronze restrike from the same period, as the Paris Mint produced silver restrikes in smaller quantities. Collectors have pursued Betts medals since the nineteenth century, when numismatists first recognized these pieces as a coherent body of historical documentation worthy of systematic study and cataloging. Collectors of French colonial Americana prize this medal as documentation of France's mid-seventeenth-century claims and administration in the New World.

Rarity Notes

Paris Mint silver restrike, 1860-79 period. Silver version is significantly scarcer than bronze. Rare.

Cross References

Betts-39; Dampville; French colonial America 1658