(1861) Silver Medal GW-443, Silver, 1st Obv 1st Rev Paquet-Born, Died

Coin Details

Auction Record

$264 MS62 03-29-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

This silver medal cataloged as GW-443, struck from the first obverse and first reverse dies by Anthony C. Paquet, commemorates the birth and death of George Washington, produced circa 1861. Paquet was an assistant engraver at the United States Mint from 1857 to 1864, best known for designing the distinctive tall-lettered reverse used briefly on 1861 Double Eagles. His Washington birth-and-death medal demonstrates the refined neoclassical style that characterized Mint engraving during this period. The designation "1st Obv 1st Rev" indicates this is the earliest die state of what became a series of Washington portrait medals using multiple die combinations over time. Silver strikings of Paquet's Washington medals are considerably scarcer than bronze or copper versions, as the precious metal composition limited production quantities. These medals were produced both for official Mint purposes and for sale to the numismatic community, which eagerly collected die varieties from Mint engravers.

Rarity Notes

GW-443, silver. Paquet dies, 1st Obverse/1st Reverse. Premium silver striking. Very scarce.

Cross References

PCGS #825312; GW-443; Paquet Born-Died, silver, 1st Obv/1st Rev