Undated (1766) William Pitt Medal. Betts-516. Silver. MS-64 (PCGS).40.11 mm. 25.9 grams. An original production from 1766, richly toned and visually appealing. The obverse is dressed in deep, yet iridescent charcoal-rose patina which also engages the reverse periphery before yielding to lighter antique gold and pale silver tinting toward the center on the latter side. Both sides are boldly lustrous and reflective. Fully struck in high relief that accentuates the heavy lettering and wig that defines this Betts number. Free of defects aside from minor hairlines that are generally well concealed by the toning and, in any event, hardly detract. This is a really pretty piece, struck after the Stamp Act Crisis to celebrate Pitts leadership. This medal would have undoubtedly been popular with audiences on both sides of the Atlantic at the time.Ex Anthony Terranova, April 2014; our Spring 2024 Auction, April, lot 2005.
