(1816) Silver Medal GW-57, Plain Rim Halliday Medal

Coin Details

Auction Record

Description

This silver Halliday Medal with plain rim, cataloged as GW-57, was produced circa 1816 by John Halliday of Birmingham, England. The plain rim on this variety provides a clean, unadorned frame for Halliday's accomplished Washington portrait, allowing the viewer's attention to focus entirely on the portrait and inscriptions. The silver composition gives the medal a bright, lustrous appearance when well-preserved, with the capacity for attractive toning over time. Halliday's portrait of Washington ranks among the best English medallic interpretations, capturing both the dignity and humanity of the subject. The circa 1816 date reflects continued English interest in Washington memorabilia nearly two decades after his death, sustained by transatlantic commerce and the steady American demand for medallic portraits of the founding hero.

Cross References

Musante-Baker GW-57; PCGS #908162