(1836) Medalet WHH 1836-1 German-Silver Holed Maj. Gen. W.H. Harrison

Coin Details

Auction Record

$60 FR2 04-12-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

This small medalet in German silver (an alloy of copper, nickel, and zinc, also called nickel silver) features Major General William Henry Harrison and is cataloged as WHH 1836-1. The piece is holed for suspension, indicating it was worn as a badge or pendant, during the 1836 presidential campaign. German silver was a popular material for tokens and medalets during the Jacksonian era due to its attractive silvery appearance and durability. The WHH 1836-1 designation indicates this is the first variety in the 1836 Harrison medal series. Harrison's military title of Major General references his service during the War of 1812, when he commanded the Army of the Northwest and achieved the decisive victory at the Battle of the Thames in October 1813, during which the great Shawnee leader Tecumseh was killed. The medalet format — smaller than a full-size medal — was practical for campaign wear and wide distribution. Harrison's 1836 campaign, while unsuccessful, helped build the political infrastructure that carried him to the presidency four years later.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. Small political medalets from the 1836 campaign survive in limited numbers, and holed examples are characteristic of original campaign use rather than later collector damage.

Cross References

PCGS #811659; WHH 1836-1; William Henry Harrison