(1862) Silver Medal GW-483, Tappan No. 6

Coin Details

Description

This silver medal cataloged as GW-483 is Tappan No. 6 in a series of Washington headquarters medals, produced circa 1862. The Tappan designation refers to Washington's headquarters at the DeWint House in Tappan, New York, and the "No. 6" indicates its position within a numbered series documenting Washington's various wartime headquarters. Tappan was the site of one of the Revolution's most dramatic episodes — the trial and execution of British spy Major John Andre in October 1780. Andre, adjutant general of the British Army, had been captured while carrying plans for Benedict Arnold's treasonous surrender of West Point. Washington reluctantly approved Andre's hanging despite widespread sympathy for the charming young officer. The silver composition marks this as the premium striking in the headquarters series, intended for serious collectors. The systematic numbering of headquarters medals reflects the mid-nineteenth century enthusiasm for organized, comprehensive collecting of Washington memorabilia.

Rarity Notes

GW-483, silver. Tappan Headquarters No. 6. Silver striking is substantially scarcer than base metal versions.

Cross References

PCGS #966500; GW-483; Tappan No. 6, silver