1852 Medal Henry Clay Memorial, Brass

Coin Details

Description

This 1852 brass medal commemorates Henry Clay, "The Great Compromiser," who died on June 29, 1852. Clay served as Speaker of the House, Secretary of State, and U.S. Senator, running unsuccessfully for president three times. He crafted the Missouri Compromise (1820) and the Compromise of 1850, temporarily preserving the Union. His death was widely mourned as the loss of one of America's most gifted orators and legislators. This brass memorial provided an affordable tribute for the general public. The artistic quality of American medals has evolved significantly over time, from the competent but sometimes crude products of early die cutters to the sophisticated sculptural compositions of modern medalists. Clay's legacy as a peacemaker took on additional poignancy as the nation moved toward the Civil War his compromises had sought to prevent.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. Henry Clay memorial medal, brass, 1852. Clay memorabilia is collected by political historians.

Cross References

PCGS #967498; Henry Clay; Memorial; Brass; 1852