 1796 Castorland Medal Restrike. Breen 1062. Choice Brilliant Proof with claims to Gem. Silver, 32.5mm, 11.65 grams. Reeded edge also bears the Paris Mint's Pointing Hand Privy Mark and ARGENT, used 1879. Struck with the original dies, identified by irregular old-style letters, notably in CASTORLAND below the mural-crowned city goddess. The reverse shows the beginning of the die bulge at PARENS that becomes pronounced before total die failure. Castorland was a settlement-refuge of Frenchmen fleeing the Revolutionary Terror near present-day Carthage, NY. Walter Breen argued that reeded edge originals weighing 14.45 to 15.45 grams were equal to the French silver Half Ecu, but most numismatists agree that the pieces were Jetons or medals publicizing the new colony. All Reeded Edge 19th century Restrikes are very scarce, and must not be confused with modern restrikes from copy dies, distinguished by even lettering and plain edges.
| |
|
