(1864) Silver Medalet GW-450, Paquet P Obv Washington-Lincoln, 1st Barber Die

Coin Details

Auction Record

$288 SP58 08-22-2021 Heritage Auctions

Description

This silver medalet cataloged as GW-450 features the Paquet "P" obverse portrait of Washington paired with a Lincoln reverse from the first Barber die, produced circa 1864. This piece combines the work of two U.S. Mint engravers — Anthony C. Paquet's Washington obverse and William Barber's Lincoln reverse — creating a medallic pairing of the first and sixteenth presidents during the Civil War. The connection between Washington and Lincoln was a powerful wartime theme: both led the nation through existential crises, and Lincoln was frequently compared to Washington as a savior of the republic. The "1st Barber Die" designation identifies the earliest version of William Barber's Lincoln portrait, which was subsequently revised. Silver strikings of these Washington-Lincoln medalets are substantially rarer than copper versions, as the precious metal composition limited production. The Paquet-Barber die combination connects two of the Mint's most skilled engravers across a collaboration that was both artistically accomplished and politically resonant.

Rarity Notes

GW-450, silver medalet. Paquet P Obv/1st Barber Lincoln Rev. Silver is substantially rarer than copper. Very scarce.

Cross References

PCGS #883366; GW-450; Paquet P Obv Washington-Lincoln, silver, 1st Barber Die