1832 White Metal Medal GW-91, C.C.A. U.S. Birth Centennial

Coin Details

Auction Record

$10,800 AU Details 11-09-2022 Stack's Bowers

Description

The 1832 medal GW-91 in white metal commemorates the centennial of George Washington's birth, which fell on February 22, 1832. The "C.C.A." inscription refers to a civic or commemorative association that organized centennial celebrations in its community. The United States birth centennial of Washington was the first great nationwide celebration of his legacy since the mourning period following his death in 1799, and it generated a significant wave of commemorative medals, prints, and memorabilia. The 1832 centennial was observed across the country with parades, banquets, orations, and public ceremonies. Congress passed a resolution authorizing the commemoration, and communities from New England to the frontier organized local celebrations. The event also spurred renewed interest in preserving Washington's physical legacy — it was during this period that the effort to purchase and preserve Mount Vernon gained momentum, eventually leading to the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association's acquisition of the estate in 1858. White metal was the standard medium for mass-produced centennial souvenirs in 1832, allowing broad public participation in the commemorative market. GW-91 represents one of many medals produced for local celebrations, each bearing the identifying marks of the sponsoring organization. These centennial pieces form an important subcategory of Washingtoniana, documenting the geographic breadth of Washington commemoration in Jacksonian America.

Rarity Notes

White metal centennial medal. 1832 birth centennial medals were produced by various organizations in varying quantities. Local association pieces may be scarcer than general-issue centennials.

Cross References

Musante-Baker GW-91; PCGS #908163; 1832 Washington Birth Centennial