(1808) Silver Medal GW-92, Baker-58, Peace of 1783

Coin Details

Auction Record

$33,600 SP64 11-18-2019 Stack's Bowers

Description

This silver medal, cataloged as GW-92 and Baker-58, commemorates the Peace of 1783, the Treaty of Paris that ended the American Revolutionary War and secured British recognition of American independence. Produced circa 1808, this medal celebrates one of the defining achievements of Washington's military career — the successful prosecution of the war that led to the peace treaty. The obverse features a portrait of Washington, while the reverse depicts allegorical imagery related to peace, such as classical figures, olive branches, or scenes of reconciliation between the former belligerents. The silver composition indicates a medal of some prestige, intended for collectors or as a presentation piece rather than for mass distribution. The Baker-58 and GW-92 catalog numbers place this within the well-documented canon of Washington peace and victory medals that were produced throughout the early nineteenth century. The circa 1808 date indicates production during the period when Americans were reflecting on the founding era with increasing nostalgia, as the generation that had fought the Revolution was aging and dying.

Rarity Notes

Rare. Silver examples of the Peace of 1783 medal are infrequently encountered. The piece is well-known in the Washington medal literature but seldom available for purchase.

Cross References

Musante-Baker GW-92; Baker-58; PCGS #546094