1801 White Metal Medal J-PR-2, 45mm Thomas Jefferson

Coin Details

Description

This white metal striking of the Thomas Jefferson presidential medal represents an alternative-composition version of the Julian PR-2 design. White metal — a tin-based alloy sometimes called Britannia metal — was occasionally used by the U.S. Mint and private die sinkers for trial strikings, presentation pieces, and affordable collector examples of important medal designs. The 45mm diameter matches the intermediate or second size of the Indian Peace Medal series. The obverse carries John Reich's portrait of Jefferson facing right, with the inscription identifying him as President of the United States. The reverse features the Peace and Friendship clasped-hands design with crossed tomahawk and peace pipe that was standard across the presidential medal series from Jefferson through Lincoln. White metal strikings typically exhibit softer detail than their bronze or silver counterparts due to the alloy's lower hardness, but they capture the full design with a distinctive silvery-white luster. White metal versions of U.S. Mint medals occupy an interesting niche in American numismatics. They were sometimes produced as proofs or special strikings for collectors, and in other cases may represent experimental or unofficial strikings. The soft metal is prone to environmental damage and corrosion, making well-preserved examples particularly desirable to specialists in the presidential medal series. This piece provides collectors an opportunity to own the Jefferson Peace Medal design in a composition that is scarcer than bronze but more accessible than the rare silver originals, offering a tangible connection to the earliest years of the presidential medal tradition.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. White metal strikings of early presidential medals are uncommon, as most production focused on silver for diplomatic use and bronze for collector sales. Surviving examples in good condition are sought after by medal specialists.

Cross References

Julian PR-2; Julian IP-3