Lot 4
1779 Rhode Island Ship Medal in Brass Betts-562 NGC graded MS61. Variety with VLUGTENDE removed and without a wreath below the ship. Sharply struck and perfectly centered on a smooth brass planchet. Frost shows through a thin layer of natural oxidation in the fields and the only defects are a some trivial stains, mostly hidden in the rigging on the large ship and at ME in AMERICA. The obverse (large ship side) is dark olive and steel while the reverse is slightly lighter with golden brass in some of the protected areas. A very nice example of this popular colonial issue that is listed in the "Colonial Issues" section of the "Redbook." The origins of this medal are uncertain but current research suggests they were struck circa 1780 and refer to two significant events in the US fight for independence. One side represents the Continental Army's withdrawal from Aquidneck Island in 1778 while surrounded by the British fleet commanded by Admiral Lord Richard Howe and the other side refers to the later withdrawal of Lord Howe's fleet from Narragansett Bay in 1779. While the place of manufacture and intended messages are uncertain, there is no doubt the piece depicts two very significant events in a conflict that changed the world. Estimated Value $2,000 - UP
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| Realized $3,060 |
