1883 White Metal Medal GW-997, Holed Evacuation of New York

Coin Details

Auction Record

$600 MS63 11-18-2019 Stack's Bowers

Description

The 1883 medal GW-997 in white metal with hole commemorates the Evacuation of New York. This holed white metal piece was worn as a badge during the centennial celebrations. GW-997 represents yet another design in the extensive series of 1883 Evacuation medals cataloged in the Musante-Baker reference. The multiplicity of Evacuation Day medal designs reflects both the scale of the 1883 celebrations and the competitive marketplace for commemorative souvenirs. Multiple manufacturers produced different designs, each hoping to capture a share of the souvenir market. White metal holed medals were the most common and most affordable participation tokens for the Evacuation centennial. Washington's image was used on medals and tokens throughout the nineteenth century by organizations, businesses, and individuals seeking to associate their activities with the prestige and patriotic symbolism of the nation's founding father. The hole allowed suspension from a ribbon, converting the medal into a wearable badge.

Rarity Notes

White metal, holed. GW-997 Evacuation design. Mass-produced souvenir badge.

Cross References

Musante-Baker GW-997; PCGS #654670; Evacuation of New York, holed