(1852) Token DeWitt WS 1852-1 Copper Major Genl. Winfd. Scott Campaign

Coin Details

Description

This copper campaign token for Major General Winfield Scott, cataloged as DeWitt WS 1852-1, represents the losing Whig candidate's side of the 1852 presidential election. Scott was one of the most accomplished military commanders in American history — his "Anaconda Plan" would later form the strategic basis for Union victory in the Civil War, and his brilliant Mexico City campaign in 1847 is still studied at military academies. However, his presidential campaign was a disaster. Known as "Old Fuss and Feathers" for his love of elaborate uniforms and military protocol, Scott was a poor campaigner who alienated voters with his pomposity and tactless public statements. The Whig Party was also fatally divided over slavery, and Scott's attempts to appeal to both Northern and Southern wings satisfied neither. He won only four states and 42 electoral votes, marking the beginning of the Whig Party's final collapse. This copper token's DeWitt WS 1852-1 catalog number indicates it was the primary Scott variety, suggesting wider production. Scott campaign material is collected alongside Pierce pieces for completeness of the 1852 election, the last contested by the Whig Party.

Rarity Notes

Copper campaign token from 1852. DeWitt WS 1852-1. Scott campaign items are scarce as the candidate of a dying party. The 1852 election was the Whig Party's last presidential contest.

Cross References

PCGS #653286; DeWitt WS 1852-1; 1852 Presidential Election; Winfield Scott; "Old Fuss and Feathers"