1792 Bronze Token Washington President General Reverse, Plain Edge

Coin Details

Auction Record

$55,813 XF45 11-14-2014 Heritage Auctions

Description

A bronze token dated 1792 bearing the legend "WASHINGTON PRESIDENT" on the obverse with the "General of the American Armies" reverse, in plain edge variety, cataloged as PCGS #717. This is one of the most historically significant Washington tokens, produced in the year Washington was serving his first term as president and combining his civilian title with his military legacy. The obverse presents a uniformed bust of Washington with "WASHINGTON PRESIDENT" or similar legend, while the reverse carries an inscription referencing his role as "General of the American Armies" during the Revolutionary War. The plain edge distinguishes this from the lettered or reeded edge varieties. These 1792 tokens were produced in England, where many early American tokens were manufactured due to superior minting technology. They was intended as pattern cents for the new United States Mint or as commercial tokens for sale to the American market. Copper or bronze, approximately 28-30mm, cent-weight.

Rarity Notes

Rare. The 1792 Washington President tokens are among the most desirable early American tokens, with strong demand from both Washington and early federal collectors.

Cross References

PCGS #717; Baker-26 (related); Musante GW series; Whitman-related