(1834) Bronze Medal GW-144, Par Nobile Fratrum

Coin Details

Description

This bronze medal, cataloged as GW-144 in the Musante-Baker reference, bears the Latin inscription "Par Nobile Fratrum" (A Noble Pair of Brothers), produced circa 1834. The medal pairs George Washington with the Marquis de Lafayette, celebrating the brotherhood forged between the two men during the American Revolution. Lafayette had returned to America for his celebrated farewell tour in 1824-1825, reigniting public enthusiasm for the Franco-American alliance, and medals honoring the Washington-Lafayette connection continued to be produced in the decade following his visit. The obverse features a portrait of Washington, while the reverse or companion side presents Lafayette, with the Latin inscription emphasizing their equality as noble champions of liberty. The phrase "Par Nobile Fratrum" originates from Horace's Satires and was applied to Washington and Lafayette as a compliment to their shared devotion to republican ideals across national boundaries. Bronze examples of this medal are well-made and reflect the skilled die-cutting of the Jacksonian era, when American medallic art was advancing rapidly under the influence of European-trained engravers working in Philadelphia, New York, and other eastern cities.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. The GW-144 Par Nobile Fratrum medal appears occasionally at auction. Bronze examples in attractive condition are sought after by collectors of both Washingtoniana and Lafayette material.

Cross References

Musante-Baker GW-144; PCGS #930672