1892 Assay Commission Medal - JK-AC-36, Copper, Benjamin Harrison

Coin Details

Description

The 1892 Assay Commission medal JK-AC-36 in copper features the second Benjamin Harrison portrait in the series, distributed during the President's final full year in office. The copper version served as the standard issue for commission members who convened to test the previous year's coinage production. Harrison's presidency saw the Philadelphia Mint reaching peak Morgan silver dollar production under the Sherman Silver Purchase Act's mandated acquisitions. The commission members testing these coins were participating in the quality oversight of what would become one of the most prolific silver coinage programs in American history — a program that was simultaneously filling Treasury vaults with largely unwanted coins and depleting gold reserves. The copper JK-AC-36 provides the accessible counterpart to the scarce silver version, ensuring that all commission members received a medal bearing the President's likeness. Charles Barber's portrait of Harrison in his mature presidential years — the President was 59 in 1892 — captures the gravity and formality that characterized Harrison's public persona throughout his single term.

Rarity Notes

JK-AC-36 (1892) in copper. Second "Benjamin Harrison" portrait. Standard distribution piece.

Cross References

PCGS #512370; JK-AC-36; 1892 Assay Commission