(1631) Jeton Betts-32, Bay of All Saints, BN MS(PCGS#613765)

(1631) Jeton Betts-32, Bay of All Saints, BN MS (PCGS#613765)

Spring 2025 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

详细说明: 30 mm. This medal is usually cataloged as "Victory at the Bay of All Saints," although the naval battle of September 11, 1631 between the Dutch and Spanish actually took place 200 miles off the Brazilian in the Albrohos, named from the Portuguese phrase abre olhos ("open your eyes") due to the half-submerged rocks that define the region. This is the type typically encountered for this Betts number and, according to Christopher R. McDowell in his 2022 reference The Early Betts Medal Companion, his 32B in copper "appears to be a lower quality copy of 32A" in silver. This copper striking features the date 1631 below the lion's tail and the hand mintmark of the Antwerp Mint at the upper border on the reverse. The deign on that side is still striking on this copy and is identical to Peter Paul Ruben's famous painting Sansón matando al león of 1628, and celebrates a rare (for the era) Spanish naval victory over the Dutch (the rampant lion is the symbol of the Dutch).The nicest copper example of this Betts number that we have handled in recent years, this is a smooth and frosty Choice AU bathed in handsome autumn and olive-brown patina. The impression is a bit tight to the lower right obverse, lower left reverse, but all design elements are clear, and most are boldly defined. Free of all but a few faint, wispy handling marks that do not distract, this is premium example of the type worthy of strong bids.