1876 Medal JK-AC-15 Copper Washington, 100 Yrs Independence, BN SP(PCGS#512289)

1876 Medal JK-AC-15 Copper Washington, 100 Yrs Independence, BN SP (PCGS#512289)

March 2021 U.S. Coins Auction

详细说明: 1876 United States Assay Commission Medal. By William Barber. JK AC-15, Musante GW-869, Baker-347. Rarity-5. Bronzed Copper. MS-64 BN (NGC). 33 mm. Rich mahogany-brown patina with slight marbling of autumn-orange here and there on the obverse. The reverse, in particular, is exceptionally smooth for the assigned grade and would easily support at least an MS-65 designation on its own. The Julian-Keusch reference on Assay Commission medals reports that Mint Director Henry R. Linderman suggested modifying the reverse of the trade dollar in 1876 to reflect the United States' centennial celebration that year. His suggestion was blocked by Philadelphia Mint Superintendent James Pollock, who pointed out that this would require an act of Congress. Instead, Linderman's idea found expression on the reverse of the 1876 Assay Commission medal, with its legend YEAR ONE HUNDRED / OF AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE around the border, circular laurel wreath enclosing the inscription 1776 / ANNUAL / ASSAY / 1876 in the center. With the portrait of our nation's first president on the obverse this, then, is a triply sought-after medal honoring the Assay Commission, Washington and the United States Centennial. Provenance: From the Larry Baber Collection. Click here for certification details from NGC.