1862 Bronze Medal Martin Van Buren

Coin Details

Description

This 1862 bronze medal honors President Martin Van Buren, who died July 24, 1862, during the Civil War. Van Buren's death at 79 made him the first former president to die during the conflict. He served as Secretary of State, Vice President under Jackson, and President (1837-1841) during the Panic of 1837. He was the first president born as a U.S. citizen and the only one whose first language was not English (Dutch). Museum collections of American medals at the Smithsonian, American Numismatic Society, and regional historical societies provide essential reference material for researchers studying material culture and commemorative practices. The provenance of important medals — their documented chain of ownership — adds both scholarly and monetary value, connecting individual specimens to the collectors, institutions, and historical contexts through which they have passed. This memorial medal documents the passing of a significant president during national crisis.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. Van Buren memorial medal, bronze, 1862.

Cross References

PCGS #967480; Martin Van Buren; Memorial; Bronze; 1862