1848 Token DeWitt-2T-1848-3 Z. Taylor-White Metal Campaign

Coin Details

Description

This white metal campaign token for Zachary Taylor is cataloged as DeWitt 2T-1848-3 (note the unusual "2T" prefix which may represent a cataloging variant for "ZT" Taylor pieces). Taylor's 1848 presidential campaign followed the Whig playbook established in Harrison's 1840 campaign — emphasize the candidate's military heroism while avoiding specific policy commitments that might divide the party. Taylor had never voted in a presidential election before 1848 and initially could not even say whether he was a Whig or a Democrat, but his Mexican War fame made him irresistible to Whig strategists. The white metal composition of this token was standard for mass-distribution campaign pieces, offering an affordable silvery-appearance item for supporters to wear or carry. Taylor's campaign slogan "Old Rough and Ready" emphasized his unpretentious character and frontline leadership style, contrasting with the more polished political backgrounds of his opponents. Taylor won the election but served only sixteen months before dying on July 9, 1850, from acute gastroenteritis contracted after eating contaminated cherries and milk at a July Fourth celebration at the unfinished Washington Monument.

Rarity Notes

White metal campaign token from 1848. DeWitt 2T-1848-3. Taylor campaign tokens are moderately scarce compared to the prolific Harrison 1840 series.

Cross References

PCGS #539260; DeWitt 2T-1848-3; 1848 Presidential Election; Zachary Taylor