(1862) Silver Medal GW-553, Mule Washington-Equestrian A.J.

Coin Details

Auction Record

$3,600 MS64 11-30-2021 Stack's Bowers

Description

This silver medal cataloged as GW-553 is a mule combining a Washington obverse with an Equestrian reverse featuring the initials "A.J.," produced circa 1862. The mule format — combining obverse and reverse dies from different medal pairs — indicates this was a deliberate numismatic creation rather than a conventional commemorative. The "A.J." initials on the equestrian reverse identify the die sinker or issuer, though the exact attribution remains a subject of scholarly discussion. The combination of Washington's portrait with an equestrian scene creates a piece that celebrates Washington in two modes simultaneously — as a statesman on the obverse and as a military commander on the reverse. Silver mule medals are among the scarcest items in the GW series because they were produced in very small quantities for collectors who appreciated unusual die combinations. This piece exemplifies the creative experimentation that characterized mid-nineteenth century private die sinkers working in the Washington commemorative market.

Rarity Notes

GW-553, silver mule. Washington-Equestrian with A.J. initials. Very scarce deliberate mule.

Cross References

PCGS #888187; GW-553; Washington-Equestrian A.J. mule, silver