(1824) Medal DeWitt AJACK-1824-1 Brass Genl. Andrew Jackson-Holed

Coin Details

Auction Record

$312 AU55 11-09-2022 Stack's Bowers

Description

This brass campaign medal from Andrew Jackson's first presidential bid in 1824 carries the DeWitt catalog designation AJACK-1824-1 and represents one of the earliest known American political campaign pieces. Jackson, celebrated as the hero of the Battle of New Orleans during the War of 1812, ran against John Quincy Adams, Henry Clay, and William Crawford in the four-way presidential contest of 1824. Although Jackson won the popular vote and the most electoral votes, he failed to secure a majority, and the House of Representatives ultimately chose Adams in what Jackson supporters called the "Corrupt Bargain." This particular example is holed, indicating it was worn as a personal ornament or pinned to clothing — a common practice before the invention of the modern campaign button. The obverse depicts General Jackson in military uniform with the inscription GENL. ANDREW JACKSON, reflecting the emphasis on his military credentials rather than his political platform. Campaign medals of this era were privately produced by die sinkers and medal makers, not by any official party apparatus, making each variety a product of grassroots enthusiasm for the candidate.

Rarity Notes

Early American campaign medal from the 1824 election. DeWitt AJACK-1824-1 in brass. Holed examples are common for this era, as medals were routinely worn as personal adornments. Scarce in any condition; surviving examples from the 1820s campaigns are among the most sought-after political Americana collectibles.

Cross References

PCGS #653276; DeWitt AJACK-1824-1; Sullivan-Dewitt reference; 1824 Presidential Election