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Auction: 347 - The Numismatic Collector's Series Sale
Lot: 57

United States. Department of the Treasury. Gold Life Saving Medal. Julian LS-9. 44.9mm. By Anthony C. Paquet. Awarded to: JOHN L. MITCHELL FOR SIGNAL HEROISM AT WRECK OF THE SCHOONER GETRUDE ABBOTT. NOVEMBER 25. 1888.

On November 25, 1888 a furious nor'easter swept the New England Coast. Observing vessels in distress, veteran lifesaver Captain Joshua James of Hull assembled a crew of "sturdy fishermen" members of the Massachusetts Humane Society, including John L. Mitchell and set out in the society's surfboat the "R.B. Forbes". Amid a raging storm, they rescued the crew of the coal-laden schooner "Getrude Abbott" of Philadelphia which had struck rocks near Nantasket. The return to shore was extremely hazardous and the crowded rescue boat struck a rock two hundred yards from the beach, filled and rolled deep under. The men held onto the boat which repeatedly struck the rocks as it was buffeted by the waves. Miraculously, the craft was not demolished and was finally thrown upon the rocks in shoal waters and all hands were able to scramble to safety.

Approximately 87 gms with hanger. Some tiny rim nicks. Extremely Fine.

Sold for
$3,250