(1889) White Metal Medal GW-1131, 2nd Obv Taking The Oath

Coin Details

Auction Record

$1,080 MS61 11-09-2022 Stack's Bowers

Description

The Musante-Baker GW-1131 medal in white metal features a second obverse die depicting George Washington taking the oath of office at his first inauguration on April 30, 1789. This "Taking The Oath" design captures the pivotal moment on the balcony of Federal Hall in New York City when Washington placed his hand on the Bible and swore to "preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States," establishing the precedent for all subsequent presidential inaugurations. White metal — an alloy primarily of tin with small amounts of antimony and copper — was a popular medium for inexpensive commemorative medals in the nineteenth century. Its bright silvery appearance offered an attractive alternative to bronze at a fraction of the cost of silver, making it ideal for mass-produced souvenir pieces intended for broad public distribution during centennial celebrations. The "2nd Obv" designation in the Musante-Baker catalog indicates this is a second obverse die variety, distinguishing it from another version of GW-1131 struck with a different obverse die. Die varieties in commemorative medals of this period are common, as dies wore out and were replaced during production runs, sometimes with subtly or significantly different engravings. The inauguration oath-taking scene was one of the most popular subjects for 1889 centennial medals, appearing across numerous catalog numbers in varying compositions.

Rarity Notes

White metal striking with second obverse die. White metal pieces are generally more affordable than bronze or silver variants. Condition sensitivity is high as white metal is soft and prone to environmental damage.

Cross References

Musante-Baker GW-1131; PCGS #657885