Lot 848

Description

John Harrison (1771) in bronze (36mm) by J. Kirk after J. Tassie (Eimer 763; BHM 156). Another, but muled with reverse of Lord Bathurst's medal (BHM 205) dated 1776. Another, but muled with Bishop of Winchester's medal (BHM 67). Attractive brilliant patinas nearly uncirculated, the last two extremely rare (3).

Ex James O' Byrne Collection with his tickets for the first and L.R. Smith Collection. John Harrison was awarded the Copley medal for his third chronometer in 1749. His work for constructing chronometers between 1735 and 1749 used to determine the longitude at sea was rewarded with Å“24,000 during the period 1746-1767 (see The Principles of Mr. Harrisons Time - Keeper, 1767). The late Richard Smith worked professionally with watches most of his life hence his desire to own this extremely rare trio of a famous horologist.