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Rare 1739 Admiral Vernon "Porto Bello" Medal - 280+ Year Old British Naval Artifact

AED 1,150

Romesh

5.0

19 items live

Item Details

Age

10+ years

Condition

Normal wear and tear for the age of the item, a few problems here and there

Usage

Used an above average amount since purchased

Posted on: 7th October 2026

Description

An incredible opportunity to own a genuine piece of 18th-century naval history. This historic commemorative medal was struck in 1739 to celebrate the famous British victory over the Spanish Empire at the port of Porto Bello (Panama) during the War of Jenkins' Ear.
These medals were highly popular patriotic tokens across Britain and the early American colonies.
• Obverse (Front): Features the figures of Admiral Edward Vernon and Commodore Charles Brown facing each other in period dress holding batons. Border reads: "ADMIRAL VERNON AND COMMODORE BROWN" with "TOOK PORTO BELLO" at the base.
• Reverse (Back): Detailed depiction of six British warships entering the harbor to attack the Spanish fortresses. Border reads the famous boastful slogan: "WITH SIX SHIPS ONLY NOV 22 1739", and "WHO PRESERVED THE ENGLISH FLEET" along the bottom.
• Material: Copper/Brass alloy (historically known as Pinchbeck).
• Condition: Fair/Good historical condition. It features a heavy, dark authentic patina with natural environmental encrustation that beautifully showcases its 280+ year age. All imagery, ships, and lettering remain fully legible.
A fantastic conversation piece for military history buffs, coin collectors, or anyone interested in antique maritime artifacts.