(1858) White Metal Medal GW-11, 2nd Obv The Manly Medal

Coin Details

Auction Record

$4,560 MS62 11-09-2022 Stack's Bowers

Description

This white metal medal, cataloged as GW-11, features a second obverse and is known as "The Manly Medal," produced circa 1858. The original Manly Medal dates to 1790, when it was presented to Captain John Manly of the Continental Navy, but this white metal version with a second obverse die represents a later striking or restrike variant. The Manly Medal is one of the most historically significant pieces in the Washington naval series, honoring a captain who captured the first British vessel taken by the fledgling American navy in November 1775. The second obverse designation indicates a die that differs from the primary obverse used on other Manly Medal versions, creating a collectible variety. White metal was commonly used for restrikes and later editions of important medals, providing an affordable medium for collectors who could not obtain original strikings in silver or bronze. The GW-11 catalog number reflects the medal's prominent position in the Musante-Baker reference.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. White metal examples of the Manly Medal with second obverse are less frequently encountered than some other Manly Medal varieties.

Cross References

Musante-Baker GW-11; PCGS #908202