1836 Bronze Medal J-MT-20, 1st Steam Coinage

Coin Details

Auction Record

$10,200 SP62BN 12-19-2021 Heritage Auctions

Description

This original 1836 bronze medal Julian MT-20 commemorates the historic introduction of steam-powered coinage at the Philadelphia Mint on February 22, 1836. Unlike later restrikes produced from preserved dies, this original striking was produced contemporaneously with the event itself, making it a primary numismatic document of one of the most important technological transitions in American coinage history. The medal was among the first products of the new steam presses, simultaneously celebrating and demonstrating the technology it commemorated. The obverse design marks the occasion with imagery and text referencing the replacement of the hand-operated screw presses that had served the Mint since 1792. Director Robert M. Patterson chose Washington's Birthday for the inaugural steam striking, a symbolic gesture connecting the modernization of the Mint to the patriotic traditions of the republic. The new presses, based on designs by Matthew Boulton and adapted by Franklin Peale after his European tour, could produce coins and medals with greater speed, force, and consistency than any human-powered press could achieve. The reverse carries identifying inscriptions with the Julian MT-20 catalog classification. As an original bronze striking from 1836, this medal represents the standard production version available to collectors and officials at the time of the event. The distinction between original strikings and later restrikes is significant to collectors, as original examples carry the historical provenance of having been produced during or shortly after the milestone they commemorate.

Rarity Notes

Original 1836 striking in bronze, Julian MT-20. Produced contemporaneously with the first steam coinage event. Earlier strikings command premiums over later restrikes.

Cross References

PCGS #515423; Julian MT-20; First steam coinage February 22, 1836; Original striking