(1841) Silver Medal GW-163, Holed Reeded Edge Tyrant Alcohol, 2nd Dies

Coin Details

Description

This silver medal with holed reeded edge, cataloged as GW-163, features the "Tyrant Alcohol" inscription and was produced from second dies circa 1841. The second-die designation distinguishes this from the first-die GW-162 version, with differences in die characteristics that reflect either replacement of worn dies or intentional modifications to the design. The reeded edge on this variety provides a different tactile and visual character compared to the plain-edge first-die version. The hole was punched for wearing as a temperance badge, and the silver composition marks this as a premium piece within the temperance medal series. The "Tyrant Alcohol" theme continued from the first dies, maintaining the powerful anti-alcohol message that linked Washington's virtue with the temperance cause. Second-die strikings was produced in response to continued demand after the first dies were retired, or they may represent a concurrent production using a different die pair. Silver examples from either die state are scarce, making the second-die silver a desirable variety for collectors pursuing the complete Tyrant Alcohol medal series.

Rarity Notes

Rare. Silver second-die examples are infrequently encountered. The combination of silver composition, holed format, and reeded edge creates a distinctive variety within the Tyrant Alcohol series.

Cross References

Musante-Baker GW-163; PCGS #886397