1849 Bronzed-Copper Medal J-IP-28, Zachary Taylor

Coin Details

Auction Record

$930 MS63BN 11-18-2020 Stack's Bowers

Description

The 1849 bronzed copper Indian Peace Medal cataloged as Julian IP-28 bears the portrait of President Zachary Taylor in the premium bronzed finish. This version shares the same IP-28 die variety as the standard bronze duplicate but has been treated with a chemical patination process at the Philadelphia Mint that produces a darker, more reflective surface. The bronzed copper finish was typically reserved for presentation-quality pieces and premium collector sales. The obverse features Taylor's right-facing bust with presidential inscriptions, rendered with enhanced visual depth due to the bronzed treatment highlighting the relief against the darkened field. The reverse carries the standard clasped-hands design with crossed peace pipe and tomahawk and the PEACE AND FRIENDSHIP motto. Taylor's presidency, though brief, fell at a critical juncture in American Indian relations as the California Gold Rush of 1849 triggered massive demographic upheaval in the Far West. The ceremonial diplomacy represented by peace medals was increasingly at odds with the chaotic reality on the ground, where tens of thousands of gold seekers overwhelmed the indigenous populations of California with devastating consequences.

Rarity Notes

Bronzed copper finish is scarcer than the standard bronze version of this die variety. The specialized finishing process limited production quantities.

Cross References

Julian IP-28; PCGS #535846