1782 Holland Declares America Free Medal. Betts-607. Silver. Unc Details--Edge Repaired (PCGS). 32.1 mm. A scarce and important Betts number from dies by Lageman, struck without the artistic merit of Holtzheys contributions to the post-Revolutionary War canon, but with just as much historical interest. The present example is virtually untoned with brightly reflective fields contrasting frosty, smartly impressed design elements. Light hairlining is noted, and some work done on the edge at 11 oclock relative to the obverse explains the PCGS qualifier. The allegorical designs of this type are simple to understand, but unaddressed by Betts and other authors is the identity of the plant at the business end of the lance on the left side of the obverse. Its topped with a Dutch style "free hat" or Liberty cap, but one wonders if the vegetables at its pointed tip are intended to be thistles and shamrocks.
