(1885) Token DeWitt GC 1884-11 Copper Grover Cleveland "Beef" Inaugural

Coin Details

Description

This copper inaugural token for Grover Cleveland from 1885 is cataloged as DeWitt GC 1884-11 and features the humorous "Beef" theme. Cleveland's inauguration on March 4, 1885 made him the first Democratic president since James Buchanan in 1857 — a 28-year gap reflecting the Republican dominance of the Civil War and Reconstruction eras. The "Beef" inscription references Cleveland's substantial physical presence — he was a large, heavyset man whose weight exceeded 250 pounds — or a contemporary political joke about his personal habits. Cleveland was known for his personal integrity and reform credentials, having risen from mayor of Buffalo to governor of New York to president in just three years. Despite the scandal over his illegitimate child that had dominated the campaign, Cleveland won because voters ultimately trusted his honesty over Blaine's corruption. This copper inaugural token documents the celebration of the Democratic Party's return to presidential power and Cleveland's distinctive personal characteristics.

Rarity Notes

Copper inaugural token from 1885. DeWitt GC 1884-11. Cleveland "Beef" theme. Inaugural tokens are collected alongside campaign material. Moderate scarcity.

Cross References

PCGS #813287; DeWitt GC 1884-11; Grover Cleveland inauguration 1885; "Beef" theme