1777 B. Franklin Americain Plaque. Terracotta. 114 mm. By Nini. Betts-247, Greenslet GM-5. Rarity-7. About Uncirculated.；These pieces were produced with a hole on the upper rim, extending through the upper part of the medal, which originally was provided for a twine suspension loop, now long gone from this specimen. This is a seldom-seen subvariety (Margolis Type 18) having both a tiny rosette design (which was also used as stops in the legend) on the second step of the internal rim at 12 oclock, and an incuse fleur-de-lys stamped into the reverse at 10 oclock. This is the first Nini Plaque we have offered with either of these features in recent years.<p>Bold brick red terra cotta fields with parts of the portrait presenting a slightly darker shade, bringing out some of the more subtle details of the design. There are three minuscule chips to the decorative internal rim, none of which are obtrusive and one of which is so tiny as to be all but indistinguishable without a loupe. Overall an outstanding example of this iconic plaque, with outstanding eye appeal and immense historical significance.<p>These portrait medallions have long been regarded as among the most fascinating contemporary collectibles relating to the American Revolution and its great statesman-philosopher Benjamin Franklin. They were produced at Chaumont-sur-Loire, France by the celebrated Italian ceramic artist Jean-Baptiste Nini (1717-1786), and were eagerly purchased by Franklins many admirers throughout Europe. Franklin elicited great interest from the elite Parisians by his rustic, democratic style of dress, notably his "old brown coat" and his martin fur cap, both of which were incorporated into the fad for "Franklin fashions" by the novelty loving populace of the French capital, and are depicted on this plaque as well.；
