1871 Token Bertram C871-114a White Metal Gen. Robt. E. Lee, Virginia

Coin Details

Description

This 1871 white metal token, cataloged as Bertram C871-114a, commemorates General Robert E. Lee of Virginia, who had died on October 12, 1870. Lee's death prompted an outpouring of memorial sentiment across the former Confederacy and generated numerous commemorative pieces. The Bertram catalog reference identifies this within a specialized numbering system for commemorative tokens and medals. Lee's legacy as the commanding general of the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia made him the most revered figure of the Lost Cause mythology that developed in the post-war South. Memorial tokens honoring Lee document the early stages of Confederate memorialization that would become a defining cultural movement in the former Confederate states. The white metal composition was standard for mass-produced commemorative pieces distributed to a broad audience of sympathizers and collectors.

Rarity Notes

White metal, Bertram C871-114a. Lee memorial token from shortly after his death. Confederate memorial numismatics.

Cross References

Bertram C871-114a; PCGS #655935; Gen. Robert E. Lee Memorial Token, White Metal