(1797) Bronze Medal GW-57, Halliday Medal Modern Restrike

Coin Details

Description

The Halliday Medal modern restrike, cataloged as GW-57, is a bronze restriking of the original medal produced by John Halliday of Birmingham, England, honoring George Washington. The original Halliday Medal dates to the period around 1797-1816 and features a distinguished neoclassical portrait of Washington on the obverse with carefully executed lettering. This modern restrike was produced using either original dies or faithful copy dies, reproducing the design elements of the original at a later date for collectors who could not obtain period examples. The Halliday Medal is considered one of the finer English-made Washington portraits in the medallic series, reflecting the skilled die-cutting abilities of Birmingham engravers who produced numerous tokens and medals during the late Georgian period. The original dies were cut with considerable artistry, presenting Washington in a dignified classical style that contrasts with the cruder portraits found on many contemporary Washington tokens. Modern restrikes are distinguished from originals by subtle differences in metal flow, surface texture, and overall sharpness that reflect later die states or different striking equipment.

Rarity Notes

Modern restrike, more available than period originals. Exact production numbers for the restrike edition are not documented, but they appear with some regularity in the Washington medal market.

Cross References

Musante-Baker GW-57 (restrike); PCGS #926353