1878 Medal Maj. Gen'l John Stark White Metal 40mm

Coin Details

Description

This 1878 white metal medal at 40mm honors Major General John Stark, hero of the Battle of Bennington (August 16, 1777). Stark's victory deprived British General Burgoyne of supplies, contributing to the British surrender at Saratoga. His famous exhortation — "There are the Redcoats, and they are ours, or Molly Stark sleeps a widow tonight!" — became one of the Revolution's most quoted battle cries. His New Hampshire motto "Live Free or Die" became the state's official motto. The medallic commemorative tradition in America accelerated during the centennial celebrations of the late nineteenth century, with the 1876 Centennial Exposition generating an unprecedented number of medallic issues. Cross-referencing medal designs with contemporary photographs, newspaper accounts, and organizational records reveals the historical contexts that generated demand for specific commemorative pieces. The 1878 date indicates production for the centennial of Bennington.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. John Stark medal, white metal 40mm. Revolutionary War hero centennial-era medals.

Cross References

PCGS #817570; John Stark; Battle of Bennington; White Metal 40mm; 1878