1909 Assay Commission Medal - JK-AC-53, Silver, George B. Cortelyou

Coin Details

Description

The 1909 Assay Commission medal in silver, cataloged as JK-AC-53, is the precious metal version featuring Treasury Secretary George B. Cortelyou. As a silver presentation piece, this medal was produced in very limited numbers for senior officials attending the 1909 annual assay proceedings. Cortelyou's tenure at the Treasury encompassed the aftermath of the Panic of 1907, during which he authorized emergency measures including the deposit of government funds in national banks to shore up the financial system. His portrait on the Assay Commission medal acknowledged both his role as head of the department overseeing the Mint and his personal involvement in stabilizing the nation's monetary system during a period of profound economic stress. The 1909 commission proceedings gained added significance from the introduction of Victor David Brenner's Lincoln cent, which the commission would examine for compliance with statutory weight and fineness requirements — the first new portrait on a circulating American coin since the Barber designs of 1892.

Rarity Notes

JK-AC-53, silver composition. Very limited mintage for senior officials. The 1909 date coincides with the landmark introduction of the Lincoln cent.

Cross References

PCGS #514246; JK-AC-53; George B. Cortelyou; 1909 Assay Commission