(1880-1898) Bronze Medal Betts-619, Franklin Winged Genius Restrike

Coin Details

Description

This bronze restrike of the Franklin Winged Genius medal (Betts-619) was produced at the Paris Mint during the 1880-98 restrike period. The original Betts-619 medal, also known as the "Diplomatic Medal" or "Winged Genius" medal, features Benjamin Franklin on the obverse and a winged female genius figure on the reverse presenting a branch to a figure representing America. This medal was created to honor Franklin's extraordinary diplomatic achievements in France, where he secured the alliance that proved decisive in winning American independence. Franklin was enormously popular in France, where his image appeared on everything from snuffboxes to chamber pots. The quality of die engraving on the finest Betts medals rivals the best European artistic production of their respective periods, with master medalists achieving remarkable detail in portraits, landscapes, and battle scenes. The Winged Genius reverse symbolizes the enlightenment ideals that Franklin embodied and that animated the Franco-American alliance.

Rarity Notes

Paris Mint bronze restrike, 1880-98 period. The Franklin Winged Genius is one of the most iconic Betts medals. Scarce.

Cross References

Betts-619; Benjamin Franklin Winged Genius; Diplomatic Medal; Franco-American alliance