1882 Assay Commission Medal - JK-AC-25, Silver, James A. Garfield

Coin Details

Description

The 1882 Assay Commission medal JK-AC-25 in silver is a precious-metal presentation striking of the James A. Garfield memorial portrait. The silver composition lends additional solemnity to this tribute to the assassinated President, creating a presentation piece whose precious-metal status befits the gravity of the occasion it commemorates. Garfield's murder by Charles Guiteau — a disappointed office-seeker who shot the President at a Washington railroad station on July 2, 1881 — shocked the nation and galvanized support for civil service reform. The Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act of 1883 was a direct consequence of Garfield's assassination, transforming the federal patronage system that had contributed to the political environment surrounding the tragedy. The silver JK-AC-25 memorial medal was produced in limited numbers for presentation to distinguished recipients, creating a precious-metal tribute that honored both the fallen President and the commission members who received it. This piece represents the Mint's capacity to respond to national tragedy through its medallic program, transforming the annual Assay Commission medal from a routine service recognition into a vehicle for national mourning and commemoration.

Rarity Notes

JK-AC-25 (1882) in silver. Memorial "James A. Garfield" portrait. Silver strikings of this memorial issue are scarce.

Cross References

PCGS #972475; JK-AC-25; 1882 Assay Commission