1778-1779 (ca. 1780) Rhode Island Ship Medal. Betts-563, W-1740. Wreath Below Ship. Brass. Unc Details--Environmental Damage (PCGS). 198.1 grains. 32.3 mm. Glossy and fairly uniform deep brown on the obverse, with traces of lighter golden color nestled in the recesses along the top of the ships hull where the surfaces are most protected. Minor chalky deposits will also be noticed in this area, in the intricacies of the rigging and within some of the letters. A shallow oxidation spot is neatly hidden in the leftmost water lines. The reverse has a similar pleasing patina and surface gloss, but the high points show a bit more oxidation. At the lower left is a larger rosy spot, against the rim between 6 and 7 oclock. This is the flaw that most catches the eye and is probably most responsible for the Details grade. The sharp details and glossy texture otherwise still make for a very pleasing piece. PCGS# 587. From the Sydney F. Martin Collection. Earlier ex Lawrence R. Stack Collection, November 2006.