1772 Benjamin Franklin Plaque by Nini. Greenslet GM-15, Margolis-17, Betts-247. Red-Brown Terra Cotta. About Uncirculated, Minor Crack.111 mm. A hole from the top edge to the blank reverse once held a knotted twine cord for suspension, now gone, but easily replaced. Attractive red-brown coloration overall and without the usual obverse edge chips. A hairline crack from 12 oclock downwards to the middle of Franklins cap is noted, as well as a single reverse edge chip -- not noticeable from the front -- and some old glue residue from an ancient attempt to repair the crack. These portrait medallions have long been regarded as among the most fascinating contemporary collectables 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.
