(1790s) Medal Washington-Success, Silvered Large, Plain Edge

Coin Details

Auction Record

$900 MS62 11-26-2024 Stack's Bowers

Description

The Washington Success medal in silvered large format with plain edge combines the larger module of the Success token series with a silvered surface finish and unornamented rim. Produced in England during the 1790s, this variety represents one of the scarcer combinations within the Success series, as the silvering process was applied to only a small fraction of the total production. The plain edge indicates striking without a collar die, while the silvering was achieved through a mercury amalgam process that deposited a thin layer of silver over the bronze planchet. The obverse features the characteristic Washington bust with SUCCESS TO THE UNITED STATES, and the reverse displays the spread-winged eagle design. The silvered plain-edge large variety is considerably rarer than either the standard bronze plain-edge or the silvered reeded-edge versions, making it one of the key pieces for specialists assembling complete Success token sets by edge and surface variety. Most surviving examples have lost some or all of their original silvering, and pieces retaining substantial coverage are highly sought after. The Success tokens as a group represent one of the most popular and extensively studied series in Washington numismatics.

Rarity Notes

Rare. The silvered large plain-edge combination is among the scarcer Success token varieties. Examples with well-preserved silvering are particularly difficult to locate.

Cross References

Baker-265 (silvered); Musante GW-41; PCGS #938320