1779 (after 1874) Henry Lee at Paulus Hook medal. Betts-575, Julian MI-5. Copper. Original obverse, U.S. Mint copy reverse. Philadelphia Mint. 45.3 mm, 814.8 grains. 4.0 - 4.2 mm thick. Mint State.Plain square edge. A final Lee medal from Wright’s original obverse, this one with a lighter tan patina and more reflective surfaces. The appearance of this piece more resembles the patina seen on the Lee medals struck with the copy obverse die (a rarity: we haven’t seen one since the May 2001 LaRiviere sale, lot 1080 to the best of our recollection), suggesting that this is among the final pieces struck from Wright’s obverse before it eventually failed completely. Many collectors will find this patina more attractive than the less reflective mahogany bronzed patina of the previous lot.From the John W. Adams Collection. Acquired from Dr. Paul Patterson.
