Major Henry Lee Medals Token 38mm Pewter Medal

The Major Henry Lee Medal is a 38mm pewter reproduction issued by the United States Mint as part of the “America’s First Medals” series, commemorating heroic figures from the American Revolutionary War. ​

Key Features:

• Material: Pewter​

• Diameter: 38 mm​

• Design Details:

  • Obverse: Features a right-facing bust of Major Henry Lee, encircled by the inscription “HENRICO LEE LEGIONIS EQUIT. PRAEFECTO COMITIA AMERICANA,” which translates to “The American Congress to Henry Lee, Commander of a Squadron of Cavalry.”​

  • Reverse: Depicts a scene symbolizing Lee’s daring assault on Paulus Hook, New Jersey, on August 19, 1779, accompanied by a Latin inscription detailing his strategic victory.​

Release Date:

This medal was offered as part of the third unit in the series, with orders accepted during April and May of 1975. ​

Mintage Quantity:

Specific mintage numbers for the Major Henry Lee medal are not readily available. However, the Numista rarity index assigns this medal a score of 79, indicating it is relatively scarce among collectors. ​

Historical Significance:

Major Henry “Light-Horse Harry” Lee was an esteemed cavalry officer known for his tactical brilliance during the Revolutionary War. His successful pre-dawn assault on the British fort at Paulus Hook on August 19, 1779, resulted in the capture of 158 prisoners, showcasing his strategic acumen and contributing significantly to the American war effort.