Some coins aren’t just old — they’re pieces of history. One special coin, the Libertas Americana medal, recently sold for $10,800, and it’s famous for more than just its age. It also has a strong connection to Benjamin Franklin, one of America’s founding fathers.
A Rare Medal With a Powerful Message
The Libertas Americana medal is one of the most celebrated medals related to American history. It’s rare, meaningful, and valuable to collectors. The medal was created to honor America’s victory in the Revolutionary War and to celebrate independence.
It was designed in 1776, the same year the Declaration of Independence was adopted — and that year is shown right on the front (obverse) of the coin.
Benjamin Franklin’s Role in the Design
While in France as a diplomat, Benjamin Franklin came up with the idea for the medal. He wanted a design that honored both the Battle of Saratoga (1777) and the Battle of Yorktown (1781) — two major wins for the U.S.
Franklin explained his vision in a 1782 letter, saying he imagined the U.S. as a baby Hercules being protected by France, shown as the goddess Minerva. That exact design appears on the back (reverse) of the medal.
What’s on the Medal?
- Obverse (front): Features Lady Liberty with a cap and pole — a symbol of freedom — and the year 1776.
- Reverse (back): Shows France as Minerva, protecting a baby (America) from a lion (Britain), capturing the spirit of the Revolutionary War.
The design was so powerful that it later inspired U.S. half cent and large cent coins.
Why It’s So Valuable
This medal was engraved by Augustin Dupré, a well-known French artist, and struck at the Paris Mint. Because of its rarity, condition, and historical meaning, it’s known as a “Holy Grail” item among collectors.
The medal that sold for $10,800 was graded as uncirculated by NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation), meaning it’s in near-perfect condition — a big deal for collectors.
Other Million-Dollar Coins
Collectors are also paying millions for other historic coins. For example:
- A 1652 NE Threepence coin sold for $2.52 million at auction.
- It was made before the U.S. Mint even existed and has “NE” for New England on the front.
- The Roman numeral III on the back shows its value.
- It was made at Hull and Sanderson’s mint in Boston and is considered one of the most important coin finds in decades.
Coin Summary Table
| Coin/Medal | Value Sold | Year on Coin | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|---|
| Libertas Americana Medal | $10,800 | 1776 | Designed by Benjamin Franklin |
| 1652 NE Threepence | $2.52 million | No date | “NE” for New England, Roman numeral III |
Bottom Line
If you see a coin or medal with the year 1776 and a design by Benjamin Franklin, don’t ignore it. It could be a Libertas Americana medal — one of the most treasured American pieces in history. And if it’s in great condition, it could be worth thousands, or even more.
FAQs
Q: What is the Libertas Americana medal?
A: A medal designed by Benjamin Franklin in 1776 to celebrate American independence and military victories.
Q: What makes it so valuable?
A: Its historical meaning, rare design, and excellent condition all raise its value.
Q: Can I still find coins like these?
A: They’re very rare, but older coins in good condition with unique features can still be found and are worth checking out.
