1890 Assay Commission Medal - JK-AC-33, Bronzed-Cu, Benjamin Harrison

Coin Details

Auction Record

$480 PR65 03-25-2020 Stack's Bowers

Description

The 1890 Assay Commission medal JK-AC-33 in bronzed copper is a specially finished version of the first Benjamin Harrison portrait design. The bronzed copper treatment produces a dark, chocolate-brown patina that gives the medal a distinguished, antiqued appearance. This finishing technique, applied through chemical treatment of the copper surface, was used selectively at the Philadelphia Mint for medals intended for presentation or display purposes. The bronzed copper composition occupies an intermediate position in the hierarchy of Assay Commission medal metals — more refined than standard copper but less valuable than silver. Recipients of bronzed copper medals would have appreciated the enhanced visual treatment as a mark of distinction, even if the underlying metal was the same common copper used for regular-issue pieces. Harrison's portrait on the bronzed copper JK-AC-33 achieves a particularly effective appearance, as the dark patina accentuates the three-dimensional quality of the presidential likeness by creating stronger contrasts between raised and recessed design elements. This composition variant adds depth to the 1890 Assay Commission medal group, which includes bronze, silver, and bronzed copper versions.

Rarity Notes

JK-AC-33 (1890) in bronzed copper. First "Benjamin Harrison" portrait. Bronzed copper strikings are scarcer than standard bronze.

Cross References

PCGS #539312; JK-AC-33; 1890 Assay Commission