1739 ADMIRAL VERNON PORTO BELLO MEDAL.

1739 ADMIRAL VERNON PORTO BELLO MEDAL.

Obv: Figure of Admiral Vernon standing facing left, a sword in his right hand; before him, on the ground, a cannon, to the right a ship. Rev: Fortified port and six ships, NOV.22.1739 below. About Uncirculated.

Admiral Edward Vernon, nicknamed "Old Grog", achieved a stunning victory against Spain during the War of Jenkins' Ear. Vernon had boasted in Parliament that he could seize Porto Bello, a vital Spanish colonial port, with only six ships. In November 1739, Vernon kept his word. His small squadron relentlessly bombarded the Spanish defenses, and with swift, aggressive actions, forced the surrender of Porto Bello. This triumph brought Vernon great fame in Britain and was a key moment in the broader conflict with Spain.