The Daniel Morgan at Cowpens medal, an extraordinary relic from the Revolutionary War, has resurfaced after being thought lost for almost 200 years. Its discovery, authenticated by a numismatics expert, has sent ripples through the world of historical collectibles and American history.
A Medal with a Storied Past
The medal was minted in 1789 to honor General Daniel Morgan’s leadership at the Battle of Cowpens, a pivotal Revolutionary War victory in South Carolina. Designed by renowned French medalist Augustin Dupré, the gold medal was presented to Morgan by President George Washington in 1790.
This battle, fought on January 17, 1781, marked a turning point in the war. Morgan’s strategy outmaneuvered British forces, delivering a decisive blow to British morale and momentum. In a letter to General Nathanael Greene, Morgan described the victory as giving the British “a devil of a whipping.”
The Medal’s Journey
Over time, the medal became more than a tribute to Morgan; it symbolized resilience and legacy. After Morgan’s death in 1802, it passed through his family, eventually landing in Pittsburgh’s Farmers and Mechanics Bank for safekeeping.
In a dramatic turn, the medal was stolen during a bank heist in 1818. Its loss sparked years of appeals to Congress and prominent figures like Thomas Jefferson. In 1835, a replacement medal was finally commissioned, but the original was presumed gone forever.
An Astonishing Rediscovery
In 2024, John Kraljevich, a specialist in coins and medals, was approached by an auction house with a mysterious gold medal encased in red leather. Upon opening the case, Kraljevich immediately recognized it as the long-lost Daniel Morgan at Cowpens medal.
“My reaction was somewhere along the lines of, holy (expletive),” Kraljevich recalled. The medal’s authenticity was confirmed, making it one of the most significant finds in American numismatics in years.
What Makes This Medal Unique?
The Daniel Morgan medal stands out for its design and historical significance:
- Obverse: Depicts Morgan leading his troops to victory.
- Reverse: Features a Native American woman crowning Morgan, symbolizing honor and unity.
Crafted in France and personally delivered by Thomas Jefferson, the medal’s craftsmanship and historical connections elevate its importance.
The Medal’s Next Chapter
The rediscovered medal is now set for auction at Stack’s Bowers Galleries, where its historical and monetary value is expected to attract global attention.
Key Details About the Auction
- Provenance: Its journey, including the theft and rediscovery, adds intrigue.
- Historical Impact: Experts consider it a tangible link to the Revolutionary War and early U.S. history.
- Estimated Value: While its exact worth is uncertain, its rarity and story suggest a significant price tag.
A Piece of History
The reappearance of the Daniel Morgan medal serves as a reminder of the enduring stories behind historical artifacts. From a battlefield in South Carolina to a French artist’s workshop and eventually a bank vault, this medal’s journey encapsulates the spirit of a young nation fighting for its identity.
