(1860) Brass Medal GW-279, Equestrian-Home of Washington

Coin Details

Auction Record

$552 MS64 11-09-2022 Stack's Bowers

Description

This brass medal cataloged as GW-279 pairs an equestrian portrait of Washington with an image of the Home of Washington, produced circa 1860. The reverse depicts Mount Vernon, Washington's beloved plantation on the Potomac River in Virginia, which had become a national shrine by the mid-nineteenth century. The Mount Vernon Ladies' Association, founded in 1853, was actively working to preserve the estate during this period, and medals depicting the home helped promote public awareness and support for the preservation effort. The juxtaposition of Washington on horseback with his domestic residence captures both the public hero and the private gentleman farmer — the two aspects of Washington's character that Americans found most admirable. Brass was a practical medium for medals intended for broad distribution and affordable collecting. This medal reflects the deep American fascination with Washington's personal life and home that has continued from the eighteenth century to the present day.

Rarity Notes

GW-279, brass. Equestrian-Home of Washington type. Mount Vernon theme adds collector appeal.

Cross References

PCGS #909472; GW-279; Equestrian-Home of Washington, brass