1880 Assay Commission Medal - JK-AC-22, Silver, Rutherford B. Hayes Pattern

Coin Details

Description

The 1880 Assay Commission medal JK-AC-22 in silver is a precious-metal presentation striking of the alternative Rutherford B. Hayes portrait pattern. The "Pattern" designation indicates this version was created as a trial or proposed design that was not adopted as the primary issue, making silver strikings of JK-AC-22 especially rare as both pattern pieces and presentation-quality medals. The existence of a silver pattern for an alternative Hayes portrait indicates the seriousness with which the Mint approached Assay Commission medal design during the 1880 transitional period. Producing a pattern in silver — rather than merely in lead or copper — indicates that JK-AC-22 was under genuine consideration as a potential primary design before JK-AC-20 was ultimately selected for standard production. This silver JK-AC-22 pattern documents the creative process within the Mint's engraving department during the critical transition from William to Charles Barber. The alternative Hayes portrait may reflect a younger Barber's attempt to establish his own interpretive voice while working with a presidential subject whose likeness the outgoing Chief Engraver had already rendered. Silver patterns from this pivotal moment in Mint history are rare and historically valuable.

Rarity Notes

JK-AC-22 (1880) in silver. "Rutherford B. Hayes Pattern." Silver strikings of this alternative design are very scarce.

Cross References

PCGS #518431; JK-AC-22; 1880 Assay Commission