1886 Assay Commission Medal - JK-AC-29, Bronze, Grover Cleveland

Coin Details

Auction Record

$2,640 SP67BN 08-23-2024 Stack's Bowers

Description

The 1886 Assay Commission medal JK-AC-29 in bronze features a portrait of President Grover Cleveland, the 22nd President and the first Democrat to hold the office since before the Civil War. Cleveland's appearance on the Assay Commission medal marked a political transition in the series, as all previous presidential portraits had depicted Republican chief executives. Cleveland brought strong views on monetary policy to the presidency. A staunch advocate of the gold standard, he would eventually stake his second-term presidency on the repeal of silver purchase legislation. His portrait on the 1886 Assay Commission medal inaugurated a multi-year Cleveland presence in the series that would ultimately span two non-consecutive terms. The year 1886 was notable at the Philadelphia Mint for the dedication of the Statue of Liberty, which was commemorated on a Mint medal featuring work by Charles Barber. The Chief Engraver's busy schedule of commemorative and ceremonial medal production meant the Assay Commission medals were produced alongside a growing portfolio of medallic responsibilities. The bronze JK-AC-29 exemplifies Barber's efficient portraiture style, creating a dignified presidential likeness within the established format of the annual commission medal.

Rarity Notes

JK-AC-29 (1886) in bronze (AE). First "Grover Cleveland" portrait in the Assay Commission series.

Cross References

PCGS #512349; JK-AC-29; 1886 Assay Commission