Early American and Betts Medals

1693 Louis XIV Felicitas Domus Augustae Medal. Betts-75, var. Copper. Extremely Fine, Rough.

60 mm. Pierced for suspension. Most likely a presented and worn medal, not only because it has been pierced, but because both sides exhibit scattered marks and edge blemishes typical of a medal awarded to a Native American. Actual wear is light, however, and largely confined to the high points, with the design retaining plenty of sharp definition. Rich steel and copper-brown patina provides a handsome and fully original appearance. This was one of a series of medals struck to celebrate the prosperity of the Royal House. The first of this series, Betts-75, was officially presented to Native Americans, while some others went to Native Americans through unofficial channels. Part XVI of the John J. Ford Collection sales included two such medals in silver, though they were from different dies than seen here. The present example is also from variant dies although its condition suggests that, officially or otherwise, it probably found its way into Native hands, as mentioned above. An exciting offering for the specialist.

Estimate: $ 1000