(1875) Medal GW-452, J-PR-31 Bronze Washington-Lincoln 3rd Barber Die

Coin Details

Auction Record

$132 SP63 08-22-2021 Heritage Auctions

Description

This bronze medal cataloged as GW-452 and Julian PR-31 pairs Washington and Lincoln on the third Barber die, produced circa 1875 at the U.S. Mint. The Julian PR-31 catalog number confirms this as an official Mint product, with William Barber's third-generation Lincoln reverse die representing the final refinement of the portrait. The Washington-Lincoln pairing on official Mint medals reinforced the quasi-official narrative linking the two presidents as co-saviors of the American republic — an interpretation that shaped both popular culture and political discourse throughout the Reconstruction and Gilded Age periods. The "3rd Barber Die" designation is significant for die variety specialists, as each successive Barber die introduced subtle differences in the Lincoln portrait. Bronze was the standard composition for Mint medal sales to the public. This piece represents the mature version of a medallic program that began during the Civil War and continued into the centennial era.

Rarity Notes

GW-452, Julian PR-31, bronze. U.S. Mint issue, 3rd Barber Die. Moderate availability from standard Mint production.

Cross References

PCGS #874963; GW-452; J-PR-31; Washington-Lincoln, bronze, 3rd Barber Die