"Few inventions could be more happily calculated to diffuse the knowledge and preserve the memory of illustrious characters and splendid event, than medals."1
These words written in 1787 expressed also the feelings which inspired the Continental Congress when, In March 1776, it instituted the tradition to bestow upon its heroes the highest distinction, expressing national appreciation, in a form of a medal.
Thomas Jefferson wanted to see that these medals, of which he was very proud, be known and be preserved throughout the world. He intended to present sets of these medals to heads of states, and to high dignitaries. He also wanted them deposited with every college in the United Staes and with each of the most distinguished Universities in Europe.
On the eve of our nation's Bicentennial celebration, we cannot think of a more appropriate way to fulfill in some measure, Jefferson's thought then with this publication and exhibit.2
Almost two hundred thirty four years have passed. The original medals have changed hands, many have been scattered around, others have disappeared without a trace. Only a few dies have survived. The United States Mint in Philadelphia, after a long search that stated in 1855, was able to reconstruct a new set of dies with which it continues, to the present time, to strake in bronze these historical mementoes.
I will show these medals one at a time, like they ought to.
!Reference
2Medals Commemorating Battles of the American Revolution
https://archive.org/details/medalscommemorat0000vlad
1https://www.medalsofamerica.com/content--name-history-of-the-revolutionary-war-military-medals
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