(2011) First Spouse Bronze Medal - Lucy Hayes

Coin Details

Description

The Lucy Hayes bronze medal honors a First Lady who was the first presidential spouse to hold a college degree, having graduated from Wesleyan Female College in Cincinnati in 1850. Lucy Ware Webb Hayes married Rutherford B. Hayes in 1852 and accompanied him during the Civil War, earning the affectionate nickname "Mother Lucy" from the soldiers of his regiment for her kindness in visiting the wounded. The obverse, designed by Barbara Fox and sculpted by Michael Gaudioso, presents a portrait of a woman known for her natural warmth and unpretentious character. As First Lady from 1877 to 1881, Lucy Hayes is best remembered for her strict temperance policy: she banned all alcoholic beverages from the White House, earning her the nickname "Lemonade Lucy" from critics and praise from the growing temperance movement. The reverse, designed by Joel Iskowitz and sculpted by Donna Weaver, references her commitment to temperance and her broader advocacy for progressive social causes. Lucy Hayes was an early supporter of the movement to provide for veterans and was active in charitable work throughout her life. She and her husband hosted the first Easter Egg Roll on the White House lawn in 1878, establishing a tradition that continues to this day. The medal is struck in bronze at the standard 1-5/16 inch diameter.

Rarity Notes

Struck at the Philadelphia Mint with open mintage during 2011. Available from dealers at modest premiums typical of the series.

Cross References

PCGS #507041; companion to First Spouse Gold $10