1776 (1783) AE Medal Betts-615, Libertas Americana, BN MS(PCGS#151815)

The Summer 2022 Global Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

拍卖行

Stack's Bowers

批号

1015

等级

AU58BN

价格

111,694

详细说明

Classic Libertas Americana Medal "1781" (1783) Libertas Americana Medal. Original. Paris Mint. By Augustin Dupre. Adams-Bentley 15, Betts-615. Bronze. AU-58 BN (NGC). 47 mm. A handsome piece that presents exceptionally well for the assigned grade. Satiny surfaces retain modest hints of semi-reflectivity in the obverse field. That side of the medal is light autumn-brown in color, the reverse with deeper copper-brown patina. Both sides retain nearly full, razor sharp striking detail with only a trace of high point rub and a few wispy handling marks explaining the NGC grade. The die state is advanced here with the obverse break beneath the digit 4 in the date reaching its fullest extent. While the spalling pit beneath the second letter A in AMERICANA is a bit larger here than on earlier strikes, the spalling trail in the lower right obverse remains fairly stable over the course of the die state continuum. There is almost nothing we can say about the Libertas Americana medal that has not been said before. It is the most recognizable early American medal, the unanimous choice as #1 in the 100 Greatest Medals and Tokensbook, and the inspiration for many of the United States coinage designs of the 18th century. It is legendary beyond its rarity, historic beyond its celebrated creation narrative, and important far beyond the world of numismatics. Cognizant of the historic moment they occupied, and appreciative of Franklin's largesse, it seems that most recipients of a Libertas Americana medal cherished it. The bulk of the mintage seems to have survived. Of course, to an 18th century non-numismatist, cherishing something meant handling it, displaying it, perhaps cleaning it now and again, thus few survive in Gem condition. The total population -- perhaps 200 or so -- is heavily weighted toward those with some handling, as here. Click here for certification details from NGC. Additional image by NGC Photo Vision. Learn more at NGCcoin.com