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Auction: 335 - The Numismatic Collector's Series Sale
Lot: 72

Great Britain. Action off Toulon, 1743-1744. "Gallows" Medal. Bronze. 37.9mm. Eimer 582, MI ii 584/224. Man hanging from a gibbet, aftermath of naval action in background with letters A B C D in field, date "1743/4" below rev. Column of troops before lion subduing a rooster, ships beyond approaching fortified coastal position, letters E F G H I around. The overall style suggestive of the Admiral Vernon series. In 1744, a combined Franco-Spanish fleet fought off Britain's Mediterranean fleet at Toulon. It was regarded as a mortifying defeat and in 1746, Admiral Thomas Matthews was court-martialed for bringing the fleet into action in a disorganized manner and for fleeing from the enemy. He was dismissed from naval service. A pamphlet was likely issued with this enigmatic medal spelling out the letter designations of the different aspects of the events. About Very Fine for type.

Estimate
$125 to $175