The Glorious First of June Medal by W. Mossop, Bust of Admiral Earl Howe. The white metal medal commemorates the victory over the French on 1st June 1794.
It was the first and largest naval engagement between Britain and France during the French Revolutionary Wars.
The British Channel Fleet under Admiral Lord Howe attempted to prevent the passage of a vital French grain convoy from the U.S. which was protected by the French Atlantic Fleet commanded by Rear-Admiral Villaret-Joyeuse. The two forces clashed in the Atlantic Ocean, some 400 nautical miles (700 km) west of the French island of Ushant on 1 June 1794. Howe inflicted a severe tactical defeat on the French fleet. In the aftermath of the battle both fleets were left shattered and in no condition for further combat. Howe and Villaret returned to their home ports. Despite losing seven ships of the line Villaret had bought enough time for the French grain convoy to reach safety unimpeded by Howe's fleet, securing a strategic success. However, he was also forced to withdraw his battle fleet back to port, leaving the British free to conduct a campaign of blockade for the remainder of the war. In the immediate aftermath, both sides claimed victory.
Approximate diameter is 34 mm
Approximate weight is 13.5 grams.
In good to very fine condition with a dark patina.
