1779 (1880-1901) Captain John Paul Jones / Bonhomme Richard vs. Serapis. Paris Mint Restrike. Silver. 56 mm. Julian NA-1, Adams and Bentley-8, Betts-568. MS-63 (NGC).Lovely mattelike pewter gray surfaces display a sharp strike and pleasing Choice quality. The Paris Mint restrikes of the John Paul Jones naval medal differ from the U.S. Mint versions in that they are signed on both sides by the sculptor and often have edge inscriptions which allow collectors to more closely date their specimens. The edge of this example is inscribed with a cornucopia and ARGENT (silver), as noted on the NGC insert, which indicate that this medal was produced between the years of 1880 and 1901. All silver impressions of this medal are highly collectable. This one was produced after the original dies had been sandblasted to remove defects.
