(2007) First Spouse Bronze Medal - Abigail Adams

Coin Details

Auction Record

$150 NG0 06-02-2002 Goldberg Auctioneers

Description

The Abigail Adams bronze medal honors the wife of John Adams and mother of John Quincy Adams, making her one of only two women to be both the wife and mother of a president. The obverse features a portrait of Abigail Smith Adams designed by Joseph Menna, portraying a woman whose extensive correspondence with her husband during his long absences in public service provides an invaluable record of life during the American founding era. Her famous 1776 letter urging her husband to "remember the ladies" while drafting new laws has made her an enduring symbol of early American advocacy for women's rights. The reverse, designed by Thomas Cleveland and sculpted by Phebe Hemphill, depicts Abigail Adams seated at her writing desk composing the letters that would later become a cornerstone of American historical literature. Her writings reveal a sharp political mind, keen observations on governance, and heartfelt devotion to her family during years of separation. Struck in bronze at 1-5/16 inches, this medal reproduces the same designs used on the companion half-ounce gold coin, allowing collectors to own the artistry of the First Spouse program without the substantial cost of the precious metal version.

Rarity Notes

Struck at the Philadelphia Mint without a fixed mintage cap during the 2007 sales period. Available from dealers and on the secondary market without difficulty.

Cross References

PCGS #151305; companion to First Spouse Gold $10 (PCGS #393199)