(1876) White Metal Medal GW-854, Double Head Mule

Coin Details

Auction Record

$720 MS65PL 04-12-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

This white metal medal cataloged as GW-854 is a double-head mule, produced circa 1876 during the centennial era. Like other double-head Washington mules, this piece features Washington's portrait on both the obverse and reverse, creating a medal that is purely numismatic rather than commemorative in purpose. The centennial period generated tremendous interest in Washington memorabilia, and die sinkers responded by creating every possible die combination from their Washington portrait inventories. The white metal composition made this mule widely accessible while maintaining the novelty appeal of the unusual format. Double-head mules from the centennial era represent the intersection of two collecting enthusiasms — Washington medals and centennial memorabilia — that drove unprecedented production of Washington-themed numismatic items. White metal double-head pieces are particularly fragile and often show environmental damage, making well-preserved examples disproportionately valuable.

Rarity Notes

GW-854, white metal. Double Head mule. Centennial era. White metal limits good-condition survivors.

Cross References

PCGS #785004; GW-854; Double Head mule, white metal