1776-dated U.S. Diplomatic Modern Restrike Medal, Copper NGC MS67BN - Finest Known!

Obtaining an original of this medal (4 known) is simply not a realistic possibility for most numismatists, making this copper restrike of the U.S. Diplomatic Medal quite desirable and a much more affordable option.

According to U.S. Mint records, only 65 pieces were produced in copper from new dies between 1876 and 1904. NGC has graded 14 of this issue, and this example is one of only four graded MS67BN, the finest known. The dies were created in 1876 by Charles Barber, for as Heritage writes (in 2019), "These are identified by the addition of DUPRE F. and C. BARBER. in small letters, and the placement of the left wingtip between the ES in STATES. Julian credits the engraver as Chief Engraver William Barber, but Charles Barber had been an assistant engraver for the U.S. Mint since 1869." 68 mm.

Jules Marcou was a Swiss-American geologist and numismatist. He wrote in 1874, "In the  autumn of 1867, I purchased in Paris, from a dealer in coins...a lot of American Medals....Among them I found a lead proof [by Augustin Dupre] in two parts..." According to the National Museum of American History, "The [Diplomatic] medal was later recast in 1876 for the American Centennial using the original lead proof by...Augustin Dupre." The dies for the medal currently offered by AUCM was crafted using Dupre's lead proof that Marcou had purchased in Paris, which he either loaned or gave to the U.S. Mint.

It is ironic that the restrikes of the medal were produced before the discovery of the originals.

The original medal was the pet project of Thomas Jefferson. The obverse presents the original version of the Great Seal of the United States, as crafted by famed French medalist Augustin Dupré. The eagle holds a ribbon in his beak upon which is inscribed the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM. An escutcheon is displayed upon his breast. Thirteen stars are found atop the obverse within a sun; rays emanate from the sun through clouds onto the eagle's wings. The legend THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA surrounds the majestic bird at the rim. An allegory of America is found on the reverse, in the figure of a American Indian princess. She holds a cornucopia and gestures to bundles of goods besides an anchor, foreshadowing future numismatic trade dollar designs. A ship representing Atlantic commerce and interactions with Europe is found in the background. Mercury as Commerce, grasping his caduceus, approaches the Indian princess. The legend TO PEACE AND COMMERCE is above the two figures, while the date 1776 is offered in Roman numerals in the exergue.