(1841) Token HT-18, Daniel Webster

Coin Details

Description

This 1841 copper token features a bust of Daniel Webster, the Massachusetts senator and renowned orator who served as one of the most prominent Whig opponents of Andrew Jackson's banking policies. Webster's portrait on the obverse is accompanied by identifying legends, while the reverse carries political inscriptions reflecting Whig monetary principles. Daniel Webster (1782-1852) was among the most celebrated American statesmen of the nineteenth century. A graduate of Dartmouth College and a brilliant constitutional lawyer, Webster served in both the House and Senate and twice as Secretary of State. His oratorical skills were legendary — the Reply to Hayne in 1830, defending the Union against nullification doctrine, is considered one of the greatest speeches in Senate history. On economic matters, Webster was a strong advocate of the Bank of the United States and the protective tariff, positions that aligned him with the commercial and manufacturing interests of New England. The 1841 date places this token in the period of William Henry Harrison's brief presidency and John Tyler's succession. Webster served as Harrison's Secretary of State and continued under Tyler, becoming the last Whig cabinet member to resign after Tyler vetoed the Bank recharter bills in 1841, breaking with his own party. This token dates from the hopeful period before Tyler's vetoes dashed Whig aspirations for a new national bank.

Rarity Notes

Common. Copper Daniel Webster tokens are readily available in the Hard Times Token marketplace.

Cross References

Low 18; Rulau HT-18