1889 Medal Douglas-7A White Metal Lovett-Inaugural Centennial

Coin Details

Auction Record

$156 MS62 08-20-2019 Stack's Bowers

Description

This white metal medal from 1889, cataloged as Douglas-7A, was produced by Robert Lovett Jr. for the Washington Inaugural Centennial celebration. The "7A" suffix indicates a variant of the Douglas-7 type, distinguished by a different die state, modified inscription, or compositional difference. Lovett's contribution to the centennial medal series represents the work of one of America's most accomplished die-sinkers, whose career spanned from the antebellum period through the Gilded Age. His centennial medals are particularly valued by collectors for their artistic quality and historical significance. The white metal composition was standard for commemorative medals intended for broad distribution during the centennial events. The celebrations in New York on April 30, 1889 — exactly one hundred years after Washington's inauguration — included a grand naval review, a massive civic parade, and a banquet at the Metropolitan Opera House attended by President Harrison and other dignitaries. These medals were among the most tangible souvenirs available to the thousands of ordinary citizens who thronged the streets of Lower Manhattan.

Rarity Notes

White metal medal from 1889. Douglas-7A. By Robert Lovett Jr. Centennial variant. Lovett pieces are consistently prized within the Douglas catalog.

Cross References

PCGS #677661; Douglas-7A; Robert Lovett Jr.; Washington Inaugural Centennial 1889