 Benjamin Franklin Oak Tree Medal, 1777. Bronze, 45.4mm. Betts 547, Fuld FR.M.NL.6. Extremely Fine or better. Obv. Bust ¾ l. in loose turban-like stocking cap, possibly an English rendition of the fur cap made famous by later Franklin portraits (see below), B. FRANKLIN OF PHILADELPHIA L.L.D. & F.R.S. This medal's distinctive facial features were apparently adapted from a portrait print by Mason Chamberlin of 1762 that Franklin himself admired and distributed to friends. Rev. Sturdy oak unharmed by lightning, NON IRRITA FULMINA CURAT, He stands impervious to the futile Lightning Bolt. Date J777 in exergue, trefoil. Reflective dark surfaces show a trace of die rust, a small dig above the head. The edge shows old coarse file marks not visible from either side.
The precise reason for this medal's issue remains a mystery, but it may be related to the publication ''The Remembrancer'' in 1770, an assertion of America's claims, reappearing with Volume V in 1775. Betts thought it related to attacks on Franklin before the Privy Council for illicitly obtaining and dispatching to America documents proving the double-dealing of the Colonial Governor as the Revolution approached. The medal emphasizes that Franklin was no colonial ''clod hopper'' by citing his Doctor of Laws degree and membership in the renowned Royal Society. At this time he had many English admirers, who were also opposed to the King's Ministry and its short-sighted colonial policies.
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