Brigs as the age of sail's unsung workhorses

Which historical ships deserve an unsung-hero award?

Age-of-sail brigs, because these small, modestly armed ships performed much of the work credited to frigates.

Small brigs receive the nomination for an overlooked age-of-sail warship. Typically described here as 18-gun vessels, they were less impressive than frigates in size and speed. They are credited with doing roughly ninety percent of frigates' work. Their limited public recognition is the reason for the choice.