The Franklin Mint History Of The United States, 1776-1973
Manufacturer
The Franklin Mint
DateNo Date
MediumSilver
DimensionsOverall: 1 3/4 in. (45 mm.)
ClassificationsDecorative arts
Credit LineGift of Dr. Eugene F. Poutasse
Object number76.81.4
On View
Not on viewThe 1779 medal: John Paul Jones Great Naval Victory
After many successful raids on British shipping from French ports, the King of France in February, 1779, gave John Paul Jones an old converted merchant ship with 42 guns which he renamed the Conhomme Richard in honor of Benjamin Franklin. That summer he captured 17 ships off Ireland and Scotland.
On September 23 he discovered a large British convoy off Flamborough Head, escorted by the nearly new Serapis, he determined to capture the convoy. The Bonhomme Richard lacked maneuverability which was an added disadvantage but when the two ships closed in on each other the yards became entangled and the rest of the battle was fought with the guns of the two ships practically touching each other.
The battle raged from about 7:00 to 10:30 p.m. Both ships were on fire in various places, leaking with parts shot away. When British commodore Pearson asked if he demanded quarter, Jones gave his famous reply, "I have not yet begun to fight!" In the end the British commander gave up although his ship was still the most seaworthy. John Paul Jones and his men transferred to the Serapis and the Bonhomme Richard sank not long afterward. Taking his prizes into port, he became a hero.
John Paul Jones was the only Continental naval officer voted a gold medal for his service.
ca. 1907
