Independence of America (1782-1786), Betts 602-623

About This Coin

Closing out the Betts catalog, numbers 602 through 623 document the medallic celebration of American independence and the young republic's first diplomatic engagements on the world stage. These medals — struck between 1782 and 1786 — commemorate the Treaty of Paris (1783) that formally ended the Revolutionary War, the recognition of American sovereignty by European powers, and early diplomatic exchanges between the United States and nations including France, the Netherlands, and Sweden. The most celebrated pieces in this range include the Libertas Americana medal, conceived by Benjamin Franklin and struck at the Paris Mint in 1783, depicting infant Hercules (America) defended by Minerva (France) against the British lion — widely regarded as the single most important medal in American numismatic history. Other entries document Dutch recognition medals, French alliance pieces, and commemorative issues marking the peace settlement. A notable auction result reached $48,000 in MS63BN grade at Stack's Bowers, with the finest examples of the Libertas Americana and other key types commanding prices well into six figures. Metal compositions include gold (for presentation), silver, and bronze, with bronze being the most commonly encountered for most types. These medals represent the culmination of C. Wyllys Betts' 1894 catalog — a deliberate editorial choice that placed American independence as the narrative endpoint of the colonial medal story. Collectors should note that several types in this range exist in both period strikes and later restrikes, with the market drawing significant distinctions based on striking period and provenance. The historical gravitas of the independence period gives these medals a crossover appeal that extends well beyond the numismatic community into the broader market for American historical artifacts and fine art.