(1766) Brass Medal Betts-517, William Pitt
Strike Type
Coin Details
Auction Record
$312 XF45 08-24-2023 Stack's Bowers
Description
Betts-517 in brass is a William Pitt medal from 1766, struck in the golden-toned alloy that was popular for commercial commemorative medals in the Georgian period. Brass Pitt medals were produced for the broadest market segment, affordable enough for ordinary colonists who wanted to display their admiration for the British statesman. The brass composition gives the medal a warm golden appearance that has aged attractively on surviving examples. William Pitt medals in brass were among the most widely distributed of all pre-Revolutionary commemoratives, sold in shops and at fairs throughout the American colonies. Betts-517 features its own die design, adding to the remarkable variety within the Pitt medal series. The commercial production of Pitt medals in multiple metals and designs demonstrates the existence of a substantial market for political commemorative merchandise in colonial America.
Rarity Notes
Brass Pitt medal, Betts-517 variety. Commercial production but scarce survivors. Popular colonial political commemorative.
Cross References
Betts-517; PCGS #528411
External References
Error Varieties
No listings found
This category doesn't have any child listings yet.
Other Strike Types in This Series
Collector Essentials
Tools and references for building and protecting your coin collection.
10x-20x Jeweler's Loupe
A must-have for examining coin details, mint marks, and surface quality
Red Book — Guide to U.S. Coins
The essential annual reference for U.S. coin values, history, and mintages
Coin Albums & Storage
Archival-quality albums and holders to protect and display your collection
USB Digital Microscope
Capture detailed images for documentation and community submissions
As an Amazon Associate, NumisDex earns from qualifying purchases.