Summary

Bronze example of the Congressional Medal issued to Henry Lee by the United States of America, 1779. Designed by J. Wright. By a resolution of the US Congress dated 24 September 1779 a gold medal was to be presented to Major Henry Lee, known as 'Light-Horse Harry', for his attack on British troops and the fort at Paulus Hook in New Jersey, on 19 August 1779.

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 (such as this one in bronze) were later produced for artistic and commemorative purposes.

Obverse Description

A draped bust of Lee facing right; around, HENRICO LEE LEGIONIS EQUIT. PRAEFECTO; below in small letters COMMITIA AMERICANA; on bust truncation, the artist's name, J. WRIGHT.

Reverse Description

The legend, within a wreath, NON OBSTANTIB / FLUMINIBUS VALLIS / ASTUTIA & VIRTUTE BELLICA / PARVA MANU HOSTES VINCIT / VICTOSQ. / ARMIS HUMANITATE / DEVINXIT / IN MEMPUGN AD PAULUS / JOOK DIE XIX / AUG. 1779

Edge Description

Plain

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