1770 "Death of Whitefield" Commemorative Silver Medal, Betts-525

A commemorative medal celebrating the life of George Whitefield. Measuring 1.375" in diameter, n.p., dated 1770. A rare silver example of the Rev. George Whitefield medal, engraved by T. Holloway. At the top edge is a suspension loop. Though exhibiting some minor wear on the high points, the medal retains a strong level of detail, including on Whitefield's wig. Light scratching and wear, with some small edge nicks. Overall very good.

The obverse is a portrait of Whitefield with the text, "The Rev. George Whitefield A.M." while the reverse bears the inscription "To the memory of the Rev. Geo. Whitefield A.M. who with unreluctant grandeur gave, not yielded up, his soul sublime at Newbury P. N. America. S. 30. 1770 in the 56 Year of his Age. His conduct is a legacy for all." 

George Whitefield (1714-1770) was an Anglican cleric and evangelist who was one of the founders of Methodism and the evangelical movement. In 1740, he traveled to North America where he preached a series of revivals that became part of the "Great Awakening". His methods were controversial, and he engaged in numerous debates and disputes with other clergymen. Whitefield died in 1770 in Newburyport, Massachusetts after giving his last sermon in Exeter, New Hampshire. Noted skeptic Benjamin Franklin recorded how Whitefield’s soaring homilies caused him to empty his pockets, first of coppers, then of silver, and finally of gold. 

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

WE PROVIDE IN-HOUSE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE!