Medal - 1781 Comitia Americana Medal Restrike (1862-63), W. Washington at Cowpens, J-IM-8 NGC MS63 Brown

Here's an affordable--and beautiful--restrike of a famous Comitia Americana medal. Struck from original dies at the Paris Mint, this issue was crafted by famed French engraver Benjamin Duvivier. His monogram 'DUV' appears on the obverse. NGC has graded 5 in MS63BN with 4 finer.

The obverse message is translated as: "The America Congress to William Washington, Commander of a Regiment of Cavalry." On the reverse it translates to: "Because with a small band of soldiers he energetically pursued the enemy, and gave a distinguished example of native valor in the battle at Cowpens, January 17, 1781." William Washington's cavalry played a decisive role in the American patriot victory at Cowpens against Banestre Tarleton's prideful British Legion. Washington was second cousins with George Washington.

William Washington was awarded his medal for heroism at the Battle of Cowpens in 1781. Image: Wikipedia.

William Washington was awarded his medal for bravery at the Battle of the Cowpens 1781. The battle took place in the outskirts of Cowpens, South Carolina. For most of the battle Washington kept his 150 soldiers covered behind a hill while the British flanks advanced, which was according to Daniel Morgan’s plan. When the British were close by, Washington’s men attacked on foot with sabers, a particularly surprising move by the Americans. He and his men retreated and regrouped only to attack in the same manner with excellent results. Washington and John Eager Howard then joined forces for a final surprise attack.