Medal - 1776-dated U.S. Washington Diplomatic Modern Gold 1oz Restrike PCGS GEM Proof DCAM

"1776" United States Diplomatic Medal. Modern Paris Mint Dies. Gold. 37 mm. 1 ounce. .999 fine. Gem Proof Deep Cameo (PCGS).

Both sides of this beautiful specimen display bold field to device contrast and vivid golden-yellow patina. This medal is one of 1,776 examples produced in this format.

Original Diplomatic Medal trial crafted by French medalist Augustin Dupré. Photo courtesy of Stack’s Bowers Auctions.

The original medal, which was designed and produced in Paris, France, 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 an 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.