(1845-60) Bronze Medal GW-149, Heroes of Liberty Edge Marked w/Pointing Hand

Coin Details

Description

This bronze medal, cataloged as GW-149, from the "Heroes of Liberty" series was produced circa 1845-1860 and features a distinctive edge marking with a pointing hand symbol. The pointing hand edge mark, also known as a manicule or index finger, served as a manufacturer's mark or quality indicator and is an unusual feature that helps identify the specific production source and batch. The "Heroes of Liberty" medal series honored figures of the American Revolution and broader struggle for human freedom, with Washington naturally occupying the premier position. The bronze composition and substantial size indicate a commemorative medal intended for display or collection rather than circulation. The circa 1845-1860 date range spans the late antebellum period, when Americans increasingly looked to Revolutionary-era heroes for moral and political guidance as the nation moved toward sectional crisis and civil war. Edge markings of this type are important diagnostic tools for numismatic attribution, as they can link a medal to a specific manufacturer or production run.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. The edge-marked variant with pointing hand is less common than unmarked examples. The broad date range indicates limited production at some point during the fifteen-year span.

Cross References

Musante-Baker GW-149; PCGS #889518