Libertas Americana

The Libertas Americana was a medal made to commemorate the American Revolution. It was designed in part by Benjamin Franklin.[1]

Libertas Americana silver medallion 1783

History

The medal was originally conceived by Benjamin Franklin after being asked to create a monument in honor of the Siege of Yorktown. Franklin outlined his idea in a letter to Robert Livingston on 4 March 1782.[2] The reverse design was further developed by Esprit-Antoine Gibelin and Augustin Dupré.[3]

Design

The obverse of the medal features the goddess Liberty. Beside her is a pole adorned with a Phrygian cap. The reverse features the infant Hercules representing the United States being attacked by a lion representing the United Kingdom. The infant, who is shown strangling two snakes, is being protected by Athena who represents France.[3][4] The reverse includes the motto NON SINE DIIS ANIMOSUS INFANS, from Horace's ode "Descende coelo", which translates to "The infant is not bold without the aide of the gods."

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References
  1. "Colonials : Libertas Americana Medals". PCGS CoinFacts. Retrieved October 17, 2018. According to the historical record, the brainchild for the medal and its designs was none other than Benjamin Franklin.
  2. "NUMISMATICS". Retrieved October 17, 2018.
  3. "Libertas Americana". Retrieved October 17, 2018.
  4. Coin auction website
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