(1790s) Medal Washington-Success Silvered Small, Reeded Edge

Coin Details

Auction Record

$1,440 AU50 11-09-2022 Stack's Bowers

Description

The Washington Success Medal in silvered small format with reeded edge is one of the most enigmatic early American medals, dating to the 1790s during Washington's presidency. These pieces bear the legend "SUCCESS" on the reverse surrounding a heraldic eagle, while the obverse depicts George Washington in military uniform. The silvered finish over a base metal core gives this piece a brighter, more lustrous appearance than the plain copper or brass versions, indicating it was intended for a more affluent audience or ceremonial use. The reeded edge distinguishes this variety from plain-edge specimens and may indicate a later or more carefully prepared striking. Success medals have served as gaming tokens, counters, or commemorative pieces celebrating Washington's leadership, though their exact purpose remains debated among numismatic scholars. The small module format, roughly the size of a colonial halfpenny, made these pieces practical for everyday handling and pocket carry. Washington Success medals circulated widely in the early republic and are found in varying states of preservation, with silvered examples being particularly scarce as the applied silver coating was prone to wear and environmental damage over time.

Rarity Notes

Silvered small format with reeded edge. Scarcer than plain copper versions due to fragile silvered surface. Most surviving examples show significant silver loss.

Cross References

PCGS #908201; Baker-265; GW Inaugural/Success series