Lot 36
(c. 1779) Rhode Island Ship Medal, with wreath. PCGS graded MS-62. These tokens were struck in England for a Dutch audience, in hopes the Dutch would not sign The Treaty Of Armed Neutrality (December 1780). The obverse design shows the Americans (with French naval support) retreating from Conanicut Island (near Newport) in 1778 pursued by the British under General William Howe's detachment that were occupying Rhode Island. A little over a year later, the Americans returned, and this time Howe's men and ships had to retreat. The legend loosely translates to "The Americans had to run away in 1778, now there goes Gen. Howe the same way in 1779" (Breen). Many of these apparently circulated in America, and few of these are known in mint state grades.
This is a rare coin in mint state, only two have been graded higher by PCGS, and this is the only coin in its grade category. We note some minor staining on the upper devices, most notable on the upper reverse, like a dark cloud at the top of the ship. Sharply struck and highly collectible in this grade.
Estimated Value $2,500-UP.
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| Realized $4,600 |
