(1863) Bronze Medal Betts-516, William Pitt Restrike

Coin Details

Auction Record

$1,680 MS64BN 08-25-2021 Stack's Bowers

Description

This circa 1863 bronze restrike of the William Pitt medal (Betts-516) was produced during the American Civil War era. Like the silver version (PCGS #935386), this bronze restrike reflects the renewed interest in Revolutionary-era heroes during the national crisis of the 1860s. The original Betts-516 medal honored William Pitt the Elder for his vigorous defense of colonial rights in Parliament, particularly his opposition to the Stamp Act of 1765. Pitt argued that Parliament had no right to impose internal taxes on the colonies without their consent, a position that made him enormously popular in America. Medallic commemoration of colonial events was not limited to military victories — treaties, explorations, trading company foundings, missionary activities, and colonial administrative milestones all received medallic recognition. The bronze composition made this restrike more affordable and widely distributed than the silver version, ensuring broader access to this important historical design.

Rarity Notes

Civil War-era bronze restrike, ca. 1863. More available than the silver version. Scarce.

Cross References

Betts-516; William Pitt the Elder; Stamp Act 1766