Medallion
Arthur Fortier
Category
Coins and medals
Date
Unknown
Materials
Pewter
Measurements
38.1 mm (Diameter)
Collection
Washington Old Hall, Tyne and Wear (Accredited Museum)
NT 591743
Summary
Pewter Nathaniel Pope Medallion commemorates the anniversary of the bold and daring action taken by Cpt. Nathaniel Pope of Fairhaven and his gallant crew of 25 men when on Saturday May,14th 1775, while aboard the 40 ton sloop 'Success' boldly and openly attacked and captured two ships under the King's colours thus constituting the first naval engagement of the Revolutionary War. This pewter like medallion was carefully etched by a local citizen, Earl M. Faunce, while the task of mould construction was undertaken by Arthur Fortier of the local militia. The face side depicts the sloop 'Success' while the obverse side displays the captured British Commander's sword which is currently on display at the Millicent Library in Fairhaven, Massachusettes. Each is individually poured, keeping with 18thC tradition, and offers a more personal, and lasting effect, not found in modern mass produced coinage.
Makers and roles
Arthur Fortier, mould sculptor Earl M. Faunce, etcher