(c.1800) Silver Medal Betts-401, J-IP-49 Quaker Indian Peace

Coin Details

Description

The circa 1800 silver medal cataloged as Betts-401 and Julian IP-49 is the Quaker Indian Peace Medal, a distinctive piece that stands apart from the presidential series by bearing no presidential portrait. Instead, this medal was produced under Quaker auspices and reflects the Society of Friends' particular approach to Native American relations, which emphasized peaceful coexistence, fair trade, and religious conversion over the territorial acquisition that drove government diplomacy. The obverse depicts a scene of peaceful interaction between a Quaker figure and a Native American, reflecting the Quaker commitment to non-violent relations with indigenous peoples. The reverse carries appropriate inscriptions supporting the peace message. The silver composition indicates this was produced as a presentation piece for actual distribution to Native American leaders during Quaker-sponsored diplomatic and missionary contacts. The Betts-401 catalog number places this medal within the broader framework of colonial and early American medallic art documented by C. Wyllys Betts in his 1894 reference work. The Quakers maintained their own parallel diplomatic relationships with Native American nations, particularly in Pennsylvania and the Ohio Valley, operating independently of and sometimes in tension with official government Indian policy.

Rarity Notes

Silver presentation medals are rare. The Quaker origin and circa 1800 production date limit surviving examples. Significant as a non-governmental peace medal.

Cross References

Julian IP-49; Betts-401; PCGS #971348