(1836) Gilt Bronze Medal J-MT-20, 1st Steam Coinage, Feb. 22

Coin Details

Description

This gilt bronze version of Julian MT-20 commemorates the introduction of steam-powered coinage at the Philadelphia Mint on February 22, 1836 — George Washington's birthday. The gilt finish, achieved by applying a thin layer of gold to the bronze surface, elevated this medal above the standard bronze version and was typically reserved for presentation pieces given to dignitaries, government officials, or other distinguished recipients. The gilding process used at the U.S. Mint in this era involved mercury amalgam application, a technique that produced a rich golden appearance but exposed workers to toxic mercury vapors. The obverse commemorates the historic transition from hand-operated screw presses to Boulton-type steam presses, a technological revolution that multiplied the Mint's production capacity many times over. The February 22 date honored George Washington while marking the dawn of industrial-scale American coinage. The original steam presses were based on designs developed by Matthew Boulton at his Soho Mint in Birmingham, England, representing a direct technological transfer from Britain's Industrial Revolution to American manufacturing. The reverse carries the Julian MT-20 catalog designation and commemorative inscriptions. The gilt bronze composition represents one of several metal variants in which this medal was produced, each serving different purposes within the Mint's distribution hierarchy — from common bronze souvenirs to precious metal presentation pieces. The gilding adds visual distinction while maintaining the base metal's superior striking characteristics compared to solid gold.

Rarity Notes

Gilt bronze variant of Julian MT-20. Scarcer than the standard bronze version. Gilt presentation pieces were typically produced in smaller quantities.

Cross References

PCGS #924052; Julian MT-20; First steam coinage February 22, 1836; Gilt bronze variant