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(1781) Libertas Americana Medal MS62 Brown NGC. Betts-615, Loubat-14....
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Sold on Aug 14, 2024 for:
$33,600.00
Bid Source: HA.com/Live bidder
Description
(1781) Betts-615 Libertas Americana Medal
Original Dies, MS62 Brown
(1781) Libertas Americana Medal MS62 Brown NGC. Betts-615,
Loubat-14. Struck in bronzed copper. The combined artistic
expertise of Augustin Dupré and the creative vision and financial
backing of Benjamin Franklin led to the creation of a magnificent
medal celebrating American victories at Yorktown and Saratoga. An
initial sketch of the medal's reverse depicted a fierce lion
(symbolizing Britain) in combat with Minerva (clad in military
attire adorned with French arms). However, in the final design, the
lion appears more subdued, with its tail tucked between its legs --
a design change that no doubt reflected American defiance toward
the Crown. According to Joseph Loubat's Medallic History of the
United States of America, 1776-1876 (Vol. 1), the Libertas
Americana medal was commissioned by Benjamin Franklin to
commemorate the surrenders of Lieutenant-General Burgoyne and
General Lord Cornwallis. The medals were minted at the Paris Mint
starting in March and April of 1781, with production continuing
sporadically until 1793. It is estimated that a total of 200 pieces
were struck in copper, 60 to 80 in silver, and two in gold (which
have since been lost). Approximately 100 to 125 copper examples are
believed to still exist.This problem-free Brown example displays visual appeal beyond expectations for the grade. Uniform chocolate-brown patina with a fewer deeper areas of color characterize each side, and the design is fully rendered. A problem-free medal with good eye appeal.
Coin Index Numbers: (NGC ID# DRPN, PCGS# 151815, Greysheet# 200006)
Auction Info
2024 August 12 - 18 ANA US Coins Signature® Auction #1376 (go to Auction Home page)
Auction Dates
August, 2024
12th-18th
Monday-Sunday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 31
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 534
Buyer's Premium per Lot:
20% of the successful bid per lot.
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