1893 Assay Commission Medal - JK-AC-37, Silver, Benjamin Harrison

Coin Details

Auction Record

$1,080 SP62 08-23-2024 Stack's Bowers

Description

The 1893 Assay Commission medal JK-AC-37 in silver features a portrait of Benjamin Harrison during a year that saw the return of Grover Cleveland to the presidency and the eruption of the devastating Panic of 1893. The Harrison portrait appeared on the 1893 medal due to the production timeline, as dies were prepared before Cleveland's March inauguration. The year 1893 was among the most dramatic in American financial history. The Panic of 1893 triggered a severe depression, bank failures, and widespread unemployment. Cleveland immediately called a special session of Congress to repeal the Sherman Silver Purchase Act, which he blamed for undermining confidence in the gold standard. The Assay Commission's annual work of coin verification thus occurred against a backdrop of monetary crisis. The silver JK-AC-37 depicting the outgoing Harrison during Cleveland's return to power captures one of the most turbulent presidential transitions in American history. The precious-metal striking creates a premium version of this historically significant medal, suitable for presentation to officials navigating the unfolding financial catastrophe.

Rarity Notes

JK-AC-37 (1893) in silver (AR). "Benjamin Harrison" portrait during the year of the Panic of 1893. Silver strikings are scarce.

Cross References

PCGS #512419; JK-AC-37; 1893 Assay Commission