1791 Bronze Medal Fuld-LA.1791.2 Gilt Gen. Lafayette National Assembly

Coin Details

Auction Record

$900 MS61 04-03-2024 Stack's Bowers

Description

This 1791 gilt bronze medal, cataloged as Fuld-LA.1791.2, is the gilded version of the Lafayette National Assembly commemoration. Gilt bronze — bronze with an applied gold wash — provided a golden appearance at far less cost than solid gold, creating a premium presentation piece without the expense of precious metal. Gilt medals were often produced for presentation to dignitaries, officials, or important subscribers, while standard bronze versions served the broader collecting market. This gilt variant of the Lafayette medal represents the premium tier of production for this design, and surviving examples with intact gilding are scarcer than standard bronze pieces, as the gold wash could wear away with handling over two centuries. The gilding elevates this from a standard commemorative to a presentation-quality tribute to Lafayette's revolutionary leadership.

Rarity Notes

Fuld-LA.1791.2, gilt bronze. Premium presentation version. Surviving examples with intact gilding command significant premiums.

Cross References

PCGS #935494; Fuld-LA.1791.2 Gilt; Gen. Lafayette National Assembly, Gilt Bronze