(c.1960's) Medal FH-507 Bronze Restrike 65mm Captain William Bainbridge

Coin Details

Description

This circa 1960s bronze restrike medal cataloged as FH-507 features Captain William Bainbridge at 65mm diameter, reproducing the Congressional gold medal awarded to the naval commander for his victory over HMS Java on December 29, 1812. Bainbridge commanded the USS Constitution in this engagement off the coast of Brazil, defeating and destroying the British frigate in a two-hour battle that further cemented the Constitution's reputation as the most formidable warship in the American fleet. The 65mm format provides a substantial canvas for the portrait of Bainbridge and the detailed naval scene on the reverse. The original Congressional gold medal was one of several authorized during the War of 1812 to honor commanders whose victories challenged British naval supremacy. Bainbridge's career included both triumphs and hardships — he had previously been captured twice, once by the French in 1798 and again by Tripoli in 1803, spending nineteen months as a prisoner during the Barbary Wars. The FH-507 bronze restrike places Bainbridge within the Fuld-Higby military heroes series, preserving the design of a medal that exists in only a handful of original gold and early bronze specimens. The 65mm diameter falls between the standard 38mm and large 76mm formats, offering excellent detail at a size comfortable for study and display.

Rarity Notes

65mm bronze restrikes in the Fuld-Higby series were produced in limited quantities. FH-507 is moderately scarce.

Cross References

PCGS #705554; FH-507 (Bronze Restrike, 65mm); Fuld-Higby Military Series; Julian MI-8