Summary

Bronze strike of the Congressional Medal awarded to Commodore Perry, by the United States of America, 1814. Oliver Hazard Perry was honored with a Congressional Gold Medal for his actions in the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812. This strike was probably made circa 1870.

Since the American Revolution the United States Congress has commissioned gold medals as its highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions. Each medal honours a particular individual, institution, or event. Often off-metal strikes were later produced for artistic and commemorative purposes.

Obverse Description

Bust of Commodore Perry in naval uniform facing right; around, 'OLIVERUS H. PERRY STAGNO ERIESE CLASSIM TOTAM CONTUIT'.

Reverse Description

The United States fleet in battle with the British fleet; around above, 'VIAM INVENIT VIRTUS AUT FACIT'; in exergue, 'INTER CLASS. AMERI. / ET BRIT. DIE X SEP. / MDCCCXIII.'. in small letters below, the artist's name, 'FURST F.'.

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