Lot 34
(c. 1779) Rhode Island Ship Medal, with wreath, pewter. PCGS graded MS-63. Breen states that about six are known of this variety struck in pewter. Most of those are in circulated grades, including the EF Garrett coin (Bowers & Ruddy Galleries, 10/80:1328). To find a choice mint state example that has been off the market for 55 years is something of a miracle. The surfaces are free of disturbing handling marks or other problems, and the coin has an even gray patina over lustrous fields. It is boldly struck and of utmost importance to the colonial specialist and one of the most desirable colonial coins in this extensive collection.
The PCGS Population Report notes only 4 examples of this have been graded, one is slightly better at MS-64, next is this coin, and below that are two other circulated pieces. The Guide Book states that "those struck in pewter are all rare and valued higher", but gives no estimate of market value. In Scott's Encyclopedia (1971) it states that only 2 are known. Breen enumerates 5 pieces, but notes that some duplication may be included in that list. The extensive Roper Collection (Stack's 1984) had a pewter example, but it was not the wreath below ship variety. These have been included in the American colonial issues for over a century, and are highly prized by specialists.
Free of tin pesting which so often mars pewter coins of this era, and graced by luster in the fields, and deeply struck devices. The only striking weakness is on the extreme high points of the ship port holes at the center of the vessel. One of the most important rarities in this colonial section, and worthy of a record price for the issue. So far as we know, no other pewter examples have been offered since the Roper coin in 1983, which as noted was a different variety.
Estimated Value $5,000-UP.
No pedigree information included, but most likely purchased in the mid 1940s privately.
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| Realized $11,500 |
