(1859) Copper Medal Baker-324AA, North Point & Fort McHenry

Coin Details

Description

This copper medal, cataloged as Baker-324AA, commemorates the battles of North Point and Fort McHenry, produced circa 1859. These Baltimore-area engagements during the War of 1812 (September 1814) are famous for inspiring Francis Scott Key to write "The Star-Spangled Banner" during the British bombardment of Fort McHenry. While the primary subject is the War of 1812 battles, the medal includes a Washington portrait connecting the defense of Baltimore to the broader tradition of American military valor established during the Revolution. The copper composition was standard for commemorative medals of this period, providing good detail and durability. Baker-324AA identifies this as a specific variety within the broader group of Baltimore battle commemoration medals cataloged by Baker. The circa 1859 date places production during a period of heightened patriotic sentiment, when Americans commemorated earlier military triumphs as the nation's sectional tensions intensified.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. The Baker-324AA copper variety is not commonly encountered. Baltimore military commemoration medals with Washington portraits form a specialized collecting niche.

Cross References

Baker-324AA; PCGS #840019