1845 Bronze Medal J-PR-9, James K. Polk Inauguration

Coin Details

Description

This bronze medal cataloged as Julian PR-9 commemorates the inauguration of James K. Polk as the eleventh president of the United States in 1845. The obverse features a portrait of Polk engraved during his presidency, capturing the determined features of the man who would fulfill every major campaign promise within a single term — the annexation of Texas, acquisition of Oregon territory, reduction of tariffs, and establishment of an independent treasury. The reverse of the inauguration medal may differ from the standard Peace and Friendship design used on Polk's Indian Peace Medal, as inauguration medals sometimes featured unique reverse compositions appropriate to the ceremonial occasion. Julian's PR-9 designation places this medal squarely within the presidential series catalog. Polk's presidency (1845-1849) is widely regarded by historians as one of the most consequential single-term administrations in American history. The Mexican-American War, which he prosecuted to conclusion, resulted in the acquisition of California, New Mexico, and the vast territories of the American Southwest — increasing the nation's size by approximately one-third. His ambitious agenda, accomplished in exactly four years as promised, came at the cost of his health; he died just three months after leaving office. The bronze composition indicates this is a collector or cabinet specimen. Inauguration medals from the mid-nineteenth century are valued both for their numismatic interest and as historical artifacts documenting the ceremonial traditions of the American presidency.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. Original bronze strikings from the 1840s are uncommon. Later restrikes are somewhat more available. The Julian PR-9 attribution covers the inauguration medal specifically, distinct from the standard Peace and Friendship medal.

Cross References

Julian PR-9; Julian IP-24 (Indian Peace Medal designation)