(1867) Medal JAB-28 White Metal Lincoln - Emancipation

Coin Details

Auction Record

$312 MS63 05-29-2019 Stack's Bowers

Description

This white metal medal cataloged as JAB-28 pairs Abraham Lincoln with the theme of Emancipation and was produced by John Adams Bolen circa 1867. The Lincoln-Emancipation pairing was one of the most powerful themes in American medallic art, celebrating Lincoln's role in ending slavery through the Emancipation Proclamation of 1863 and the Thirteenth Amendment of 1865. Bolen's interpretation brought his distinctive artistic sensibility to a theme that dozens of other die sinkers also addressed during the post-Civil War period. The white metal composition offered a bright, silver-like surface that showcased the die work effectively while remaining affordable. Each metal variety was produced in very limited quantities — the total output across all metals for any single die pairing rarely exceeded one hundred pieces combined. Bolen's Lincoln medals are among the most sought-after pieces in his body of work.

Rarity Notes

J.A. Bolen white metal Lincoln-Emancipation medal. Fewer than 25 white metal examples believed extant.

Cross References

PCGS #659420; JAB-28; Lincoln - Emancipation