United States of America - Federal Republic (1776-date), Libertas Americana (circa late 18th century), by Augustin Dupre (Paris mint) (Lead, 47.40 gr, 47.5 mm). Extremely Fine, Obverse minor handling. The Libertas Americana medal was conceived by Benjamin Franklin and crafted in France by Augustin Dupré. This medallic marvel commemorated France's part in the success of the American Revolution with the allegorical reverse design portraying Minerva (France) protecting the infant Hercules (America) from the lion (Britain). Libertas Americana medals were first struck in silver, we believe that only 25 to 30 were minted, and bronze beginning in March 1783, about 200 were minted. The two gold strikings that Franklin presented to King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette of France are not traced. Conceived by Franklin and crafted by Dupré, this is truly a numismatic treasure. A handsome example, well preserved, and sharply detailed. Probably a cast. Previously encased in a gilt bronze frame. From Doctor Andre Berheim's collection. Within the same collection since 1920s. André Bernheim, born on October 25, 1877, in Paris, was a general practitioner. During World War I, Dr. Bernheim served as a second-class medical officer and was stationed in the front lines in Alsace. He received commendations for his dedication and bravery in performing his duties under intense bombardments. After the war, he proposed the creation of a Jewish Art museum in Paris, which eventually led to the establishment of the MAHJ. Dr. Bernheim had strong friendships with artists and developed various collections, including one on the French Revolution. During World War II, he aided Jewish refugees and became involved in Jewish organizations after the war. He passed away in 1961, and his collections were divided among his children, with some donated to a museum in Jerusalem and others kept in the family. Despite the efforts made to find a suitable museum, this collection, which represents one of the major private collections on the French Revolution, could not find a place in a French museum and was ultimately dispersed in January 2023.

Lot 540

United States of America - Federal Republic (1776-date), Libertas Americana (circa late 18th century), by Augustin Dupre (Paris mint) (Lead, 47.40 gr, 47.5 mm). Extremely Fine, Obverse minor handling. The Libertas Americana medal was conceived by Benjamin Franklin and crafted in France by Augustin Dupré. This medallic marvel commemorated France's part in the success of the American Revolution with the allegorical reverse design portraying Minerva (France) protecting the infant Hercules (America) from the lion (Britain). Libertas Americana medals were first struck in silver, we believe that only 25 to 30 were minted, and bronze beginning in March 1783, about 200 were minted. The two gold strikings that Franklin presented to King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette of France are not traced. Conceived by Franklin and crafted by Dupré, this is truly a numismatic treasure. A handsome example, well preserved, and sharply detailed. Probably a cast. Previously encased in a gilt bronze frame. From Doctor Andre Berheim's collection. Within the same collection since 1920s. André Bernheim, born on October 25, 1877, in Paris, was a general practitioner. During World War I, Dr. Bernheim served as a second-class medical officer and was stationed in the front lines in Alsace. He received commendations for his dedication and bravery in performing his duties under intense bombardments. After the war, he proposed the creation of a Jewish Art museum in Paris, which eventually led to the establishment of the MAHJ. Dr. Bernheim had strong friendships with artists and developed various collections, including one on the French Revolution. During World War II, he aided Jewish refugees and became involved in Jewish organizations after the war. He passed away in 1961, and his collections were divided among his children, with some donated to a museum in Jerusalem and others kept in the family. Despite the efforts made to find a suitable museum, this collection, which represents one of the major private collections on the French Revolution, could not find a place in a French museum and was ultimately dispersed in January 2023.

Category: World

Starting price: 7500 €

* - 22% buyer's fees are not included in the hammer price

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Lot 540