(1875) White Metal Medal GW-853, 2nd & 4th Obv Double Head Mule

Coin Details

Auction Record

$89 MS63 08-22-2021 Heritage Auctions

Description

This white metal medal cataloged as GW-853 is the white metal version of the double-head mule combining the second and fourth obverse dies, produced circa 1875. While the copper version (PCGS #658132) offers traditional medallic appearance, the white metal composition provides a bright, silvery surface that gives the paired Washington portraits a dramatically different aesthetic. White metal — a tin-based alloy — was among the cheapest medal compositions available, making it accessible to casual collectors while providing the die sinker with an additional metal variety to offer the market. The soft white metal reproduces die details with exceptional clarity, sometimes revealing surface features that are less visible on harder copper or brass strikings. Both sides of this mule display Washington's portrait, making it a purely numismatic creation with no commemorative or commercial purpose beyond its appeal as an unusual die combination. White metal double-head mules are fragile and prone to environmental degradation, making well-preserved examples particularly desirable.

Rarity Notes

GW-853, white metal. Double Head mule, 2nd & 4th Obverse dies. White metal is fragile; survival in good condition is uncommon.

Cross References

PCGS #883464; GW-853; Double Head mule, white metal, 2nd & 4th Obv