1783 (ca. 1808) Washington Franklin / Treaty of Paris Sansom Medal. Betts-617, Musante GW-92, Baker-58A, Julian CM-5. Bronzed Copper. Specimen-65 (PCGS).40.4 mm. 526.2 grains. Like Betts-546 and Betts-549, this is one of the entries into Sansoms "Medallic History of the American Revolution." Unlike Betts-549, this variety marries dies originally intended to go together by John Reich though, it should be pointed out, this reverse was also used on the extremely rare Washington C.C.A.U.S. medal. The bronzing is attractive deep mahogany, mostly even, though some shallow darker verdigris is noted in the obverse fields. The sharpness is superb and no bad marks are seen, just a tiny defect on the rim at the bust tips. The eye appeal is excellent on both sides, but the reverse is particularly attractive. This medal was conceived to honor the roles Washington and Franklin played in American independence, as marked by the 1783 Treaty of Paris; Washingtons role was military in nature, while Franklins was diplomatic. Examples of this medal are very challenging to find in choice condition today. Silver specimens are of the highest rarity.From the Martin Logies Collection. Earlier ex Abner Kreisbergs sale of October 1966, lot 50; Ted Craige Collection; Ted Craige estate; John W. Adams Collection; our sale of the John W. Adams Collection, November 2015 Baltimore Auction, lot 23090.
