(c.1808) Bronzed-Copper Medal J-CM-5, Sansom, American Revolution

Coin Details

Auction Record

$8,400 SP65 03-29-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

This bronzed copper medal, cataloged as J-CM-5, is a circa 1808 Sansom version of the American Revolution medal. The "bronzed copper" designation indicates a copper medal with an applied dark patina, giving it the appearance of aged bronze — a finishing technique used by the early U.S. Mint to enhance the aesthetic appeal of copper medals. The J-CM-5 catalog number connects this to the John Reich design family, suggesting either Reich's involvement or the use of dies associated with his work at the Mint. The circa 1808 date places this in the early years of the Mint's medal production program, when Chief Engraver Robert Scot and Assistant Engraver John Reich were producing both regular coinage and commemorative medals. Bronzed copper medals occupy a distinct category in numismatic collecting — they are neither standard bronze nor untreated copper, and the quality of the bronzing finish is itself a point of connoisseurship among specialists in early American medals.

Rarity Notes

J-CM-5, bronzed copper composition, c. 1808. Early U.S. Mint medal. Specialized bronzing finish. Scarce.

Cross References

PCGS #596795; Julian CM-5; Sansom American Revolution Medal, Bronzed Copper; c. 1808