Pirates: Blackbeard

Issued 1987
Blackbeard

Edward Teach—aka Blackbeard—was probably the most notorious of all pirates; despite the fact he never actually killed anyone. In an age when most men were clean-shaven, Blackbeard grew a long, full black beard to intimidate his enemies. His reputation and appearance were such that his targets would surrender without a fight. Only moderately successful as a pirate, Blackbeard secured a place in history when he met his death in a legendary battle against the Royal Navy. In 1719, Blackbeard’s head was displayed on a pole as a warning of the fate that awaited all pirates.