MEDALLION

An incomplete Post Medieval copper alloy medallion commemorating Vice Admiral Vernon (mid-late 18th century). The medallion celebrates the capture of the Spanish Caribbean depot of Porto Bello in the isthmus of Panama in November 1739.

Obverse: Full-length portrait of Vernon facing right next to cannon and with ship behind

Obverse inscription: [THE . BRITISH . GLORY] . REVIV . D. BY . ADMIRAL . VERNON

Reverse: Six masted ships and the harbour of Porto Belllo

Reverse inscription: [WHO TOOK POR]TOBELLO WITH SIX SHIPS ONLY / [NOV . 22 . 17]39

Die axis measurement: 6

Dimensions: diameter: 37.58mm; weight: 8.68g

On 21 November 1739 Vernon captured the Spanish colonial possession of Porto Bello (now in Panama) using just six ships (against the 90-man Spanish garrison). Vernon was subsequently granted the Freedom of the City of London and commemorative medals were produced. The Portobello areas in London, Dublin and Edinburgh (see Portobello Road and Portobello, Dublin) are named after this victory, and "Rule, Britannia!" was composed by Thomas Arne during the celebrations in 1740. A tower commemorating his victory was erected by members of the Vernon family living at Hilton Hall outside Wolverhampton.

Numismatic data

No numismatic data has been recorded for this coin yet.