1777 Horatio Gates at Saratoga Medal. Philadelphia Mint. Betts-557, Julian MI-2, Adams-Bentley 4. Bronze, Gilt. MS-61 (PCGS).
55.7 mm. 1254.2 grains. Collar mark on edge above GA of GATES. A Philadelphia Mint striking from original dies, from the same die state as Adams (SBG 11-19) lot 2019. A very unusual piece, the first gilt example we've seen from this generation of production. Rich yellow gilding shows significant darker iridescence on both sides. Some raised artifacts or pimples are seen from the gilding process; this is not the fire-gilding process common in Europe in the 18th century. Good luster persists on both sides, and only a few scattered hairlines are seen. Undamaged and little handled, the grade does not capture the high level of preservation. The reverse shows a significant cud above the cannonballs at the left side of the exergual line and another around the rim from above the space between ON of REGIONUM at 11 o'clock to 3 o'clock. The rim has been somewhat filed, as usually seen, but not taken down to the level of the surrounding rim, as is more typical. There is a range of cud abatement seen on specimens of this general die state; Adams:2019 showed no filing at all. For U.S. Mint specialists or Comitia Americana enthusiasts, the chance to buy a high grade gilt Gates medal is an exceptionally unusual opportunity.
From the Richard August Collection.

Estimate: $5000