Admiral Vernon Medals
1741 Admiral Vernon Cartagena Medal. Adams-Chao CAvo 2-B, M-G 227. Rarity-5. Bath Metal. MS-62 (PCGS).
37.3 mm. A really lovely Admiral Vernon medal, with both sides well centered on the planchet and the overall design sharply to fully executed. Surface preservation is exceptional for both the type and the assigned grade, and we note a hard, satiny texture that is free of detracting marks. The reverse is warmly toned in deep golden-brown with a tinge of olive, the obverse is minimally toned in mottled gray-brown and retains plenty of bright, original brassy-gold color. Modest traces of semi-prooflike reflectivity in the field on the latter side further enhance already strong eye appeal. This is one of the Cartagena medal types with portraits of both Vernon and Ogle on the obverse. We sold an NGC AU-53 example from the CAvo 2-B dies for $1,020 in our June 2020 Auction; the present piece is far finer and worthy of a strong premium. The Battle of Cartagena de Indias took place during the War of Jenkins' Ear (1739-1748). These medals, with the date 1741, refer to the third British attempt to take the Spanish fort, which ultimately failed despite the fact that British forces succeeded in seizing the outer line of defenses. This battle saw the first deployment of American colonial troops abroad.
Estimate: $1200