(1825) Bronzed-Copper Medal J-IP-12, John Quincy Adams

Coin Details

Auction Record

$1,020 MS65BN 04-03-2024 Stack's Bowers

Description

This bronzed copper Indian Peace Medal bears the portrait of John Quincy Adams and is cataloged as Julian IP-12. The IP-12 designation represents one of multiple die varieties produced for the Adams peace medal program, with different varieties potentially reflecting different medal sizes, die states, or reverse designs used during the administration. John Quincy Adams brought considerable diplomatic experience to the presidency, having served as Secretary of State under Monroe and as a diplomat in Europe before that. His approach to Native American relations was more ambivalent than his successor Jackson's, and he struggled to balance the demands of western settlers for Indian lands with his own moral reservations about forced removal. Nevertheless, peace medals continued to be produced and distributed as part of the established diplomatic protocol. The bronzed copper composition of this piece indicates it was produced as a Mint restrike or duplicate for the collector market rather than as an original silver presentation medal. The bronzing process gave the copper a refined, dark brown appearance that mimicked the gravitas of the silver originals while making the medals available at a fraction of the cost. These bronzed duplicates have become the primary means by which most collectors can acquire examples of the presidential peace medal series.

Rarity Notes

Bronzed copper striking of Julian IP-12 dies. Collector duplicate — more accessible than silver presentation pieces but still scarce in the overall medal market.

Cross References

Julian IP-12; PCGS #536747