1974 Medal Battle of Derna Silver USMC 200th Anniversary

Coin Details

Description

This 1974 silver medal commemorates the Battle of Derna as part of the 200th anniversary of the United States Marine Corps. The Battle of Derna (April 27, 1805) was a pivotal engagement during the First Barbary War, when a small force of Marines under Lieutenant Presley O'Bannon led an overland march across the Libyan desert to capture the city of Derna from the Barbary pirates. This action inspired the "shores of Tripoli" line in the Marines' Hymn and established the Corps' reputation for expeditionary warfare. The study of medal production techniques — from die engraving and planchet preparation through striking and finishing — reveals the intersection of artistic vision and industrial manufacturing that characterizes the medallic arts. The USMC's bicentennial in 1975 prompted a series of commemorative medals honoring major events in Marine Corps history, with this Derna medal produced slightly ahead of the anniversary.

Rarity Notes

Silver USMC bicentennial medal. Battle of Derna, 1805. Limited production for Marine Corps anniversary series.

Cross References

PCGS #937040; Battle of Derna 1805; USMC 200th Anniversary; First Barbary War