(1862) Medal JAB-3 Brass Arsenal with Sun

Coin Details

Auction Record

$600 MS64RB 03-05-2019 Stack's Bowers

Description

This brass medal cataloged as JAB-3 depicts a U.S. Arsenal with a sun motif and was created by John Adams Bolen of Springfield, Massachusetts circa 1862. The Springfield Armory, located in Bolen's hometown, was the primary United States arsenal for military small arms manufacture from 1794 through 1968, and its wartime prominence made it a natural subject for Bolen's medallic work. JAB-3 is among the earliest numbered pieces in Bolen's series, produced during the most intense period of Civil War arms production when Springfield was turning out thousands of rifle-muskets for the Union Army. The sun motif on the arsenal design represents American resolve or the dawn of a new era. Bolen produced this medal in multiple metals — brass, copper, silver, and white metal — each in very limited quantities typically under twenty-five pieces per composition. The brass gives a distinctive golden tone. Bolen's arsenal medals are foundational pieces for collectors of his work and reflect his deep connection to Springfield's most famous institution.

Rarity Notes

J.A. Bolen brass medal, JAB-3. Among Bolen earliest numbered pieces. Fewer than 25 brass examples exist.

Cross References

PCGS #636728; JAB-3