Lot 295
1781-Dated. Libertas Americana Medal. Betts-615. NGC graded MS-64 Brown. Well struck with glossy fields. This is one of the most popular medals from the Paris Mint with dies by Augustin Dupre. The obverse depicts the head of Liberty facing left with a cap hoisted high on a pole up behind her head. Her hair flows freely behind as if she's facing into a stiff breeze. Above her are the words LIBERTAS AMERICANA and below her bust and a raised bar is 4 JUIL 1776. This obverse design was somewhat copied for the 1793 half cents, which show the head of Liberty facing left, with her cap of freedom raised high on the pole behind her head. All other Liberty cap coinage with the pole struck in our country has Liberty facing to the right. There are three dates noted on this medal, the obverse as noted has 4 JUIL 1776, the reverse has two dates, one is October 17, 1777 and October 19, 1781. The actual striking of this medal at the Paris Mint was in 1783, precious few remain this nice and desirable.
The reverse has the Goddess Minerva (representing France) defending with her shield and spear the infant baby (the United States) from the British Lion who is seen with his tail between his legs, a sign of submission. The original design was by Benjamin Franklin, with some revisions into the final product by Dupre such as the Fleur De Lis on the shield instead of on Minerva's dress. Handsome light brown with outstanding surfaces and unending eye appeal. Historic and always in feverish demand from collectors all over the world. Pop 9; 2 finer in 65. Estimated Value $20,000 - UP
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| Realized $40,800 |
