1779 (pre-1842) Captain John Paul Jones / Bonhomme Richard vs. Serapis Naval Medal. Original. Paris Mint. Betts-568, Adams-Bentley 8. Bronze. MS-62 BN (PCGS).56.2 mm. 88.4 grams. Plain edge. Our multiple offerings for original bronze John Paul Jones medals in this sale is a rare event in todays market; most examples are widely dispersed, and most have already found their way into tightly held collections. This is a richly toned mahogany and autumn-brown piece with some warmer highlights in the protected areas. The rims are well composed for the assigned grade with only a few trivial nicks that hardly detract. There are a few scattered spots, the most significant at the reverse border just past 3 oclock, both sides with scattered marks that include a couple of light scrapes in the obverse field below the word PAVLO, another on the reverse between the letters TIV in HOSTIVM and the ships rigging. The original softly frosted finish is still appreciable with the aid of good lighting, and the design elements are fully rendered. A more than respectable example of this beautifully designed and challenging type in original format.
