"Rebellion To Tyrants Is Obedience To God"

   This medal was struck by order of then Virginia governor Thomas Jefferson circa 1780. It was given to allies of the colonial forces. It represents Tyranny lying conquered and prostrate beneath the heel of Virtus. She is leaning on a lance in one hand and sword in the other. The words; "Rebellion To Tyrants Is Obedience To God" stand out near the edge of the circumference.

   There is Biblical foundation for the above as well:

For the LORD taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation.

Let the saints be joyful in glory: let them sing aloud upon their beds.

Let] the high [praises] of God [be] in their mouth, and a twoedged sword in their hand;

To execute vengeance upon the heathen, [and] punishments upon the people;

To bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron;

To execute upon them the judgment written: this honour have all his saints. Praise ye the LORD.

- Psalms 149:4-9

 Woe unto them that decree unrighteous decrees, and that write grievousness [which] they have prescribed;

To turn aside the needy from judgment, and to take away the right from the poor of my people, that widows may be their prey, and [that] they may rob the fatherless!

And what will ye do in the day of visitation, and in the desolation [which] shall come from far? to whom will ye flee for help? and where will ye leave your glory?

Without me they shall bow down under the prisoners, and they shall fall under the slain. For all this his anger is not turned away, but his hand [is] stretched out still.

- Isaiah 10:1-4