(1880-1898) Silver Medal Betts-143, Louisburg

Coin Details

Description

This silver restrike of the Louisburg medal (Betts-143) was produced at the Paris Mint during the 1880-98 restrike period. The silver composition distinguishes this from the bronze version (PCGS #955726) struck in the same period. The medal commemorates the remarkable 1745 capture of the French fortress of Louisbourg by New England colonial militia, one of the greatest military surprises of the colonial wars. The silver version carries a significant premium over the bronze due to both its precious metal content and its considerably smaller production quantity. Louisbourg was considered virtually impregnable — a massive star-shaped fortification guarding the entrance to the Gulf of St. Lawrence — making its capture by an improvised colonial army all the more astonishing to contemporary observers.

Rarity Notes

Paris Mint silver restrike, 1880-98 period. Silver version significantly scarcer than bronze. Rare.

Cross References

Betts-143; Siege of Louisbourg 1745; King George's War