(1869-80) Bronze Medal J-NA-17, Oliver H. Perry Replacement Dies

Coin Details

Description

The circa 1869-1880 bronze naval medal cataloged as Julian NA-17 with replacement dies honors Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry at the Battle of Lake Erie. The "Replacement Dies" designation indicates this production used newly cut dies rather than the original dies, which had worn out or been damaged after decades of use. Replacement dies are identifiable through differences in portrait detail, letter formation, and border characteristics. The obverse features Perry's naval portrait from the replacement dies. The reverse carries Lake Erie commemorative imagery. The 1869-1880 production period places this medal in the post-Civil War era, when continued demand for War of 1812 medals required the cutting of new dies. The distinction between original and replacement dies is a fundamental aspect of medal collecting that parallels die variety collecting in coins. Replacement dies may show subtle but identifiable differences from originals, including sharper or softer details in specific areas, different letter punch styles, and varying rim treatments. Collectors of the Julian naval series seek both die types.

Rarity Notes

Replacement die production from circa 1869-1880. Distinguished from original-die strikes by specific die characteristics. Moderately available.

Cross References

Julian NA-17 (replacement dies); PCGS #923301