1876 Bronze Medal GW-936, See How We Prosper

Coin Details

Auction Record

$600 SP62 11-09-2022 Stack's Bowers

Description

The 1876 medal GW-936 in bronze bears the inscription "See How We Prosper," a boastful Centennial-era celebration of American progress in the hundred years since independence. The phrase captures the confident, expansionist spirit of the Gilded Age, when Americans pointed to their nation's industrial growth, territorial expansion, and growing international influence as evidence of the republic's success. The "See How We Prosper" message was directed at both domestic and international audiences. The 1876 Centennial Exhibition was explicitly designed to showcase American achievements, and medals bearing optimistic inscriptions reinforced the exhibition's promotional message. Bronze composition indicates standard commemorative production. GW-936 is a characteristic product of Centennial-era boosterism, combining Washington's founding authority with Gilded Age confidence.

Rarity Notes

Bronze. Centennial prosperity medal. Standard composition.

Cross References

Musante-Baker GW-936; PCGS #909527; See How We Prosper