(1809) Bronze Medal J-IP-7, James Madison

Coin Details

Auction Record

$900 MS65BN 11-18-2020 Stack's Bowers

Description

This bronze Indian Peace Medal bearing James Madison's portrait is cataloged as Julian IP-7, representing a different die variety from the Julian IP-5 in the Madison peace medal series. The existence of multiple die varieties for a single president's peace medals reflects both the practical need to replace worn dies and the occasional desire to update or refine the medallic designs during an administration. Madison served during a period when the United States Mint was developing its capabilities in medallic art under the direction of Chief Engraver Robert Scot and his successor John Reich. Reich, a German-born engraver who joined the Mint in 1807, brought European sensibilities to American medal design and is credited with elevating the artistic quality of Mint productions during the Madison era. The Julian IP-7 variety may represent a later die state or replacement dies cut for continued medal production. Peace medals were not mass-produced in the modern sense but were struck as needed for specific diplomatic missions, treaty negotiations, and ceremonial occasions. The bronze version was produced as a restrike or duplicate for collectors and institutions, preserving the original die designs in a more accessible format than the scarce silver presentation pieces.

Rarity Notes

Bronze striking of Julian IP-7 dies. A different die variety from IP-5, both depicting Madison. Later bronze strikings are more available than original silver presentation pieces.

Cross References

Julian IP-7; PCGS #535843