(1800) Bronze Medal GW-83, Westwood Medal, 2nd Rev

Coin Details

Auction Record

$720 MS62 08-24-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

This bronze Westwood Medal with second reverse, cataloged as GW-83, was produced circa 1800. The Westwood Medal is an English-made piece honoring George Washington, and this variety pairs the standard Westwood obverse portrait with a second reverse die designated by the "2nd Rev" notation. The bronze composition and the GW-83 catalog number distinguish this from other Westwood Medal varieties, including silver and white metal versions as well as those with the first reverse die. The second reverse may feature different inscriptions, symbols, or layout compared to the primary reverse, creating a distinct collectible variety. English medal-makers in the early nineteenth century frequently produced multiple die combinations to maximize the commercial potential of successful portrait dies, and the Westwood Medal's multiple reverse pairings follow this established practice. The circa 1800 date places this medal in the period immediately following Washington's death in December 1799, when memorial and commemorative Washington pieces experienced a surge in demand on both sides of the Atlantic.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. The bronze second-reverse Westwood variety is not commonly encountered. Period examples in good condition are valued by specialists in early Washington medals.

Cross References

Musante-Baker GW-83; PCGS #915686