1808 Bronze Medal J-PE-30, Benjamin Rush

Coin Details

Auction Record

$6,600 MS61 04-03-2024 Stack's Bowers

Description

This 1808 bronze medal, cataloged as Julian PE-30, honors Dr. Benjamin Rush, one of the most important physicians in American history and a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Rush served as Surgeon General of the Continental Army, Professor of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, and Treasurer of the U.S. Mint. He pioneered humane treatment of the mentally ill, earning him the title "Father of American Psychiatry," and advocated for public health during Philadelphia's devastating 1793 yellow fever epidemic. The Julian PE-30 designation identifies this within the Personal medals series. Bronze medals have served as the workhorse composition for American commemoratives, providing a durable and affordable medium that allowed broad distribution while maintaining the artistic quality of the original designs. Rush's contributions extended beyond medicine to include abolitionism, education reform, and temperance advocacy.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. Julian PE-30, bronze. Benjamin Rush medals are collected by medical historians and signers collectors.

Cross References

PCGS #886436; Julian PE-30; Benjamin Rush; Physician; Declaration Signer; 1808; Bronze