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Great Britain - 1809

George III, 50th Year

Obverse:

A crown within a wreath of oak. MAY A VIRTUOUS REIGN CONTINUE LONG AFTER A GLORIOUS PEACE * / BORN 4 JUNE 1738 MAY THE EMPIRE FLOURISH

Reverse:

TO / COMMEMORATE / THE YEAR 1809 / WHEN GEORGE THE III / EMPEROR OF THE / BRITISH ISLES / ENTER'D THE 50^TH / (OF HIS / REIGN)

Vern's Comments:

Fascinating for a couple of reasons. First, BHM makes absolutely no mention of the last two lines of the reverse. Nor does it mention rarity or a location of an example. In short it is one of the most incomplete entries in the entire book.

Another interesting point is the reference to George III as Emperor of the British Isles. This isn't common as you'll find looking at other British medals of the period. Otherwise it's a rather unremarkable white metal medal in excellent condition. There are hi-res photos if you click on the pictures.

BHM:


This piece has oblique reeding on the edge. See also note to No. 641.
from British Historical Medals, Volume 1, p. 161

George III, 50th Year