1781 (post-1789) John Eager Howard at Cowpens Medal. Original. Paris Mint. Betts-595, Adams-Bentley 12. Bronze. MS-64 BN (PCGS).46.5 mm. 50.8 grams. Plain edge, squared rims. This is an exceptionally well preserved and attractive striking from the original dies. Both sides are warmly patinated in handsome autumn-brown with some rose highlights. The surfaces exhibit a smooth, hard, frosty texture with hints of reflectivity in the fields. Fully struck with exceptional eye appeal, a light obverse spot at 4 oclock is out of the way and mentioned solely as an identifier. In addition to extensive evidence of die rust at the upper obverse border outside the letters EDIT in PEDITUM this piece shows additional, albeit smaller die rust pits on the reverse above and below the letters IS in VIRTUTIS. A highly desirable example of this popular Comitia Americana medal, one of the few originals in the series that can be somewhat readily obtained. While dating pieces like this is challenging, this was certainly struck well before the Paris Mint started marking the edges of restrikes about 1842.From our (Stacks) Rich Uhrich Collection sale, February 2008, lot 3597.
