(1864) Silver Medal J-PR-31, Washington-Lincoln

Coin Details

Auction Record

$780 NGC Genuine 06-23-2020 Stack's Bowers

Description

This silver medal cataloged as Julian PR-31 pairs George Washington and Abraham Lincoln — the two presidents most universally revered as saviors of the American republic. Produced in 1864 during the final year of the Civil War, this dual-president medal connected the founding of the nation under Washington with its preservation under Lincoln, creating a powerful visual argument for national unity. The design juxtaposition of Washington and Lincoln carried immense symbolic weight in 1864. Washington created the Union; Lincoln was fighting to save it. The pairing asserted that Lincoln's cause was a direct continuation of Washington's legacy — that preserving the Union was completing the work of the founding generation. This message was particularly relevant during the presidential election year of 1864, when Lincoln faced significant political opposition and the war's outcome remained undocumented. The silver composition indicates a premium striking for collectors or presentation purposes. Julian PR-31 is one of the most historically significant entries in the presidential medal series, as it commemorates the intersection of America's two greatest existential challenges — its creation and its near-destruction. The medal was engraved by William Barber, who served as the Mint's engraver during the 1860s. Later restrikes were produced using modified dies, with numismatic scholars identifying multiple die states including what is described as the "3rd Barber die" for subsequent bronze restrikes. The original silver strikings remain the most desirable versions to advanced collectors.

Rarity Notes

Rare in silver. Original 1864 silver strikings are scarce, with most surviving examples in advanced collections. Bronze restrikes, including those from the 1870s onward, are more available but still collected.

Cross References

Julian PR-31; Baker-246; Musante GW-452; King-543