This bronze medal, minted in 1972, commemorates the bicentennial of the American Revolution (1776–1976) and celebrates the Sons of Liberty, a patriotic group that played a significant role in the fight for American independence. The medal pays tribute to the legacy of George Washington and the enduring spirit of liberty that defined the birth of the United States.
Specifications:
- Obverse Design: Features a right-facing bust of George Washington, surrounded by the inscription "AMERICAN REVOLUTION BICENTENNIAL // GEORGE / WASHINGTON // 1792." The circular legend emphasizes the celebration of two centuries since the Revolution.
- Reverse Design: The reverse displays the inscription "SONS OF LIBERTY // JOIN OR DIE," accompanied by a design with two prominent motifs: a large tree symbolizing liberty and a historical emblem bearing the phrase "JOIN OR DIE" with a segmented snake, a symbol associated with Benjamin Franklin's famous political cartoon advocating colonial unity.
- Composition: Bronze
- Diameter: 37.5 mm
- Weight: 25.09 g
- Edge: Smooth ("lisse")
- Engraver: Initials "RJM" (specific artist information not provided)
- Punchmark: None ("sans poinçon")
Condition:
- Grade: AU (About Uncirculated)
- Comments: The medal displays visible scratches within the fields, suggesting light handling or storage wear. Despite this, the reliefs and inscriptions remain well-preserved, highlighting the medal's artistic and historical design.
Historical Context: The American Revolution (1775–1783) led to the independence of the thirteen American colonies from British rule, resulting in the establishment of the United States of America. The Sons of Liberty, founded in 1765, were instrumental in organizing resistance against British policies, including the Stamp Act and the Townshend Acts. The group's motto, "Join or Die," symbolized the need for unity among the colonies in the face of oppression. The bicentennial celebration in 1976 marked a period of national reflection and pride, with numerous commemorative items like this medal produced to honor the nation's founding ideals.
Significance: This medal is a valuable collector's item for those interested in American history, numismatics, and the revolutionary spirit. It serves as a tangible reminder of the principles of freedom and unity that underpin the United States' heritage. The artistic representation of George Washington and the iconic symbols of the Sons of Liberty contribute to the medal's appeal among historians and collectors alike.
