1785 Reale & 1810 Large Cent
spanishsilver
Posts: 34
spanishsilver
Posts: 34
spanishsilver
Posts: 34
Comments
If you have any good finds post 'em. Always looking for eyecandy. -Dan
LEGACY OF LIBERTY
Q: Mark, I recovered this ring near an old cellar hole in New Hampshire. The site was occupied from the mid 1700s to the early 1800s. Just over 1/2" in diameter and 1/8" wide, the ring is made of copper, with traces of gilt remaining. There are raised bands at the edges, and between them is "ADAMS LIBERTY," along with what could be illegible lettters &/or numbers, or some sort of ornament. I have been told that it may be a bereavement ring, but haven't been able to find out anything about it. Any ideas on what this ring is, and what its rarity and value might be?
A: As far as I can determine, yours is the first such ring reported. Although differing somewhat in style, and of a size more appropriate for a child, it's reminiscent of the rare, c. 1800 George Washington mourning/memorial ring first reported in this column in April 2000; and "ADAMS LIBERTY" certainly invites attribution to President John Adams. At first I thought it might be a mourning ring as well, but on reflection the sentiment of the inscription seems more patriotic than memorial. And while it's true that Adams did not enjoy the same popularity and acclaim as his predecessor, Washington, there are a number of patriotic souvenirs related to his term as president in 1797-1801. Obviously, as previously unseen, it's difficult to value; but specialists familiar with the Washington ring have suggested $1,000-1,500 for this excavated Adams example.
As a descendant of John and John Quincy Adams, I'm envious.
<< <i>LM, do you have anything cool, that was in the family, which was handed down to you? -Dan >>
No, not really. I once heard that my grandmother had some Adams candlesticks. When I mentioned that at some family gathering, one of my aunts snorted and corrected me: No, she said- they were Bradford candlesticks- as in William Bradford, the Pilgrim governor, from whom my grandmother was also descended. To Mayflower enthusiasts, I guess those would be far more important than some mere John Adams presidential mementoes.
However, I never saw these legendary candlesticks, so I dunno if they even existed.
It's kinda cool to be a distant descendant of the guy on the front of the Pilgrim half dollar, though.