1874 Assay Commission Medal - JK-AC-13, White, Metal Archimedes, No Inscription

Coin Details

Description

The 1874 Assay Commission medal JK-AC-13 in white metal is a variant striking of the Archimedes design using a tin-based alloy. The "No Inscription" notation in this piece's description indicates it may lack the directorial identification found on some variants, presenting the Archimedes figure in a cleaner compositional format. White metal strikings from this period are uncommon, as the alloy was used selectively for medals when a bright metallic appearance was desired at lower cost than silver. The white metal composition produces a distinctive surface quality that differs from both silver and aluminum. The tin-based alloy has a slightly warmer tone than aluminum and lacks silver's deep brilliance, but it can capture medallic detail effectively when properly struck. The relative softness of white metal means these pieces are often found with more surface contact than their harder copper counterparts, making well-preserved examples particularly desirable. This 1874 white metal JK-AC-13 demonstrates the continued practice of producing Assay Commission medals in multiple compositions during the transition from the Pollock to the Linderman administration. The availability of variant strikings for collectors was becoming an established feature of the series by the mid-1870s, though production quantities for non-standard compositions remained very limited.

Rarity Notes

JK-AC-13 (1874) in white metal. "Archimedes, No Inscription" variant. White metal strikings are scarce and susceptible to environmental damage.

Cross References

PCGS #972471; JK-AC-13; 1874 Assay Commission