Political
1785 John Adams Ambassador Medal Struck in Bronze
1785-Dated American Federal Period. John Adams First American Ambassador to Great Britain Medal. Struck in Bronze. By Lewis Pingo. Brown-1. Choice Uncirculated.
40mm. This is a truly historic American Revolutionary War Era related commemorative medal. Brown suggests it was "Struck on the occasion of John Adams, the first American Ambassador's initial interview with George III on 1st June 1785." Eimer writes this "medal was exhibited by Lewis Pingo in London in 1775" and that it does not represent any single occasion, meaning this particular medal may have been struck as a generic Peace medal. Still, some believe this medal was used to commemorate the 1783 Treaty of Paris, ending the American Revolutionary War with Britain. One example located in the collection of the British Museum, Coins and Medals catalogue number: MB3p63.265.

Obverse design: Cuirassed, laureate bust of George III, facing right, with Inscription Content: “GEORGIVS III DEI GRATIA.” Reverse design: Liberty standing holding cap of liberty and spear with Inscription Content: “SEMPER HONOS NOMENQVE TVVM” (Translation:) Your Honour and Name [shall last] Forever, [Vergil]. It is sharply struck having excellent details, smooth hard surfaces and rims that are defect free with an attractive natural rich brown color.

One can pretty much conclude this medal had multiple uses. Perhaps that is why this medal was struck without a date. It is likely this medal was used to commemorate the 1783 Peace Treaty, as well as for John Adams' visit. The figure of “Liberty” holding a “Liberty Cap” strongly infers its direct American connection. This is a rare, tough to get medal and the first we have offered!