1810 GW-112-C1 Washington-Lafayette on 1810 50C Half Dollar

Coin Details

Description

Cataloged as Baker 196 and Musante GW-112, this dual-portrait Washington-Lafayette counterstamped piece uses an 1810 Capped Bust half dollar as its host coin, combining the numismatic appeal of early American medallic art with the intrinsic value of a silver half dollar from the first generation of United States coinage. The counterstamp features portraits of both George Washington and the Marquis de Lafayette — the French aristocrat who served as a major general in the Continental Army and whose personal friendship with Washington became emblematic of the Franco-American alliance that secured American independence. The practice of applying counterstamps to circulating coins was widespread in the early nineteenth century, serving purposes ranging from merchant advertising to political commemoration. In this case, the Washington-Lafayette pairing celebrates the ideological bond between the two revolutionary leaders, a theme that resonated deeply in American culture and generated numerous medallic tributes throughout the 1800s. The choice of a half dollar as the host coin was typical for such counterstamps, as the large silver planchet provided adequate space for the dual portrait while retaining the host coin's monetary value. Very rare in any configuration, Washington-Lafayette host-coin pieces are scarce across all host dates, and the 1810 Capped Bust half dollar — designed by John Reich — adds a third layer of collectibility for specialists in early federal silver coinage.

Rarity Notes

Very rare. Washington-Lafayette host coin pieces are scarce.

Cross References

Baker 196; Musante GW-112