(1801) Silver Medal J-PR-2, Thomas Jefferson

Coin Details

Auction Record

$72,000 MS62 06-20-2021 Heritage Auctions

Description

This silver presidential medal honoring Thomas Jefferson is cataloged as Julian PR-2 and represents one of the earliest medals in the U.S. Mint's presidential series. The obverse features a right-facing bust of Jefferson designed by John Reich, the Mint's assistant engraver, capturing the third president during his first term in office. The reverse displays the iconic Peace and Friendship design — two hands clasped beneath a crossed tomahawk and peace pipe — that became the standard motif for Indian Peace Medals presented to Native American leaders during treaty negotiations and diplomatic encounters. Jefferson authorized the first presidential Peace Medal bearing a president's likeness in 1801, replacing the earlier oval medals used under Washington and Adams. Reich's portrait die proved remarkably durable and was used for decades of subsequent strikings. The silver composition of this particular example indicates either an original diplomatic presentation piece or an early collector striking, as the large silver medals were the most prestigious versions given to important chiefs and tribal leaders. The Jefferson Peace Medal holds particular historical significance because Jefferson's presidency coincided with the Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1804-1806, during which dozens of these medals were distributed to Native American leaders encountered along the route to the Pacific. The expedition carried medals in three sizes, with the largest reserved for the most prominent chiefs. Archaeological discoveries and museum collections have confirmed the widespread distribution of these medals across the American West. This 45mm silver striking represents the intermediate size in the series and combines the gravitas of precious metal with Reich's skillful portrait engraving, making it one of the most historically important medals in American numismatics.

Rarity Notes

Rare in silver. Original silver diplomatic presentation pieces are extremely scarce, with most surviving examples in institutional collections. Later silver restrikes from the original dies are less rare but still command strong premiums. Bronze versions are considerably more available.

Cross References

Julian PR-2; Julian IP-3 (Indian Peace Medal designation); Prucha-38