1893 Medal Baker-654A, Capitol Cornerstone Centennial

Coin Details

Auction Record

$576 SP63 11-18-2019 Stack's Bowers

Description

The 1893 medal Baker-654A commemorates the Capitol Cornerstone Centennial — the hundredth anniversary of George Washington laying the cornerstone of the United States Capitol on September 18, 1793. Washington performed the ceremony in full Masonic regalia, using a silver trowel and marble gavel, establishing a tradition of Masonic involvement in government building dedications. The Capitol cornerstone ceremony was one of the most significant Masonic events in American history and was celebrated by both patriotic and fraternal organizations on its centennial. Baker-654A documents this specific commemoration. The centennial of the Capitol cornerstone was observed in Washington, D.C. The demand for Washington commemorative pieces was particularly intense during centennial celebrations, with the 1876 Centennial, 1882-1883 evacuation anniversaries, and 1887 Constitutional Centennial generating large numbers of medallic issues. with ceremonies at the Capitol building, connecting the growing national capital to its founding moment.

Rarity Notes

Baker-654A. Capitol Cornerstone Centennial. Masonic and patriotic significance.

Cross References

Baker-654A; PCGS #787419; Capitol Cornerstone Centennial