1891 Assay Commission Medal - JK-AC-35, Copper, William Windom

Coin Details

Description

The 1891 Assay Commission medal JK-AC-35 in copper presents a second William Windom portrait, creating a pair of Windom medals for the 1891 commission year. The existence of two distinct Windom numbers — JK-AC-34 and JK-AC-35 — indicates either two different portrait treatments or obverse-reverse combinations, providing the Mint with alternative options for honoring the recently deceased Treasury Secretary. The dual Windom medals for 1891 may reflect the unusual circumstances surrounding Windom's death. If JK-AC-34 was already in production before the Secretary's passing, JK-AC-35 was created as a more explicitly memorial version, incorporating design elements or inscriptions that acknowledged his death. Alternatively, both versions were prepared in advance as variant options, with Windom's death giving both enhanced commemorative significance. The copper JK-AC-35 rounds out the 1891 Assay Commission medal offerings, completing a year that is distinguished in the series by its focus on a Treasury Secretary rather than a President. This Treasury-level recognition would recur at various points throughout the series, reflecting the direct relationship between the Treasury Department and the Assay Commission's statutory mandate.

Rarity Notes

JK-AC-35 (1891) in copper. Second "William Windom" portrait for 1891, paired with JK-AC-34.

Cross References

PCGS #512367; JK-AC-35; 1891 Assay Commission