(2013) First Spouse Bronze Medal - Edith Roosevelt

Coin Details

Description

The Edith Roosevelt bronze medal honors a First Lady who professionalized the management of the White House and established the modern role of the presidential spouse as a public figure. Edith Kermit Carow Roosevelt had known Theodore Roosevelt since childhood in New York City, and they married in 1886 after the death of his first wife Alice. The obverse, designed by Joel Iskowitz and sculpted by Don Everhart, portrays a woman of intelligence, reserve, and organizational skill who managed the boisterous Roosevelt household of six children with a composure that contrasted sharply with her husband's famously exuberant personality. The reverse, designed by Joel Iskowitz and sculpted by Joseph Menna, references her role in the 1902 renovation of the White House, overseen by the architectural firm McKim, Mead & White. This renovation separated the family living quarters from the executive offices for the first time, creating the West Wing and transforming the White House into both a functional workplace and a proper family home. Edith Roosevelt also established the First Lady's portrait gallery, hired the first social secretary, and managed press relations with a skill that shielded her family from intrusive coverage. After Theodore Roosevelt's death in 1919, she lived quietly in Oyster Bay until her death in 1948. Struck in bronze at 1-5/16 inches.

Rarity Notes

Struck at the Philadelphia Mint during 2013 with open mintage. Available on the secondary market at standard pricing.

Cross References

PCGS #518190; companion to First Spouse Gold $10