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

Coin Details

Auction Record

$7,475 AU58 01-01-2007 Heritage Auctions

Description

The Washington Success Medal in small format with reeded edge is among the earliest American commemorative tokens, struck during the 1790s to honor George Washington during or shortly after his presidency. The obverse features a bust of Washington in military dress facing right, while the reverse displays an eagle surrounded by the word "SUCCESS." These medals belong to a broader family of Success tokens that were produced in multiple sizes and edge varieties. The small module with reeded edge represents one of the standard die combinations within this series. Numismatic scholars have long debated whether these pieces served as gaming counters, political tokens, or informal commemoratives of Washington's inaugurations. Their widespread survival indicates substantial original mintages, though the exact mint of origin remains undocumented — attributions have ranged from American workshops to English die sinkers producing tokens for export. The brass or copper composition and modest size made them accessible to ordinary citizens, and many show evidence of significant circulation, indicating they were carried as pocket pieces or used in daily commerce alongside colonial-era coppers and early federal cents.

Rarity Notes

Small format with reeded edge, base metal. More available than silvered versions. Found in a range of conditions from well-worn to choice.

Cross References

PCGS #783; Baker-265A; GW Inaugural/Success series