(c.1843) Bronze Medal J-IP-21, Bronzed, John Tyler

Coin Details

Auction Record

$1,020 MS64BN 11-18-2020 Stack's Bowers

Description

The circa 1843 bronzed Indian Peace Medal cataloged as Julian IP-21 bears the portrait of President John Tyler and represents a distinct die variety from the IP-23 version. The Julian IP-21 designation reflects differences in die characteristics, including variations in portrait detail, letter spacing, or rim treatment that distinguish it from the IP-23 dies. Tyler served from 1841 to 1845 after the death of William Henry Harrison and was the first vice president to assume the presidency upon the death of the incumbent. The obverse features Tyler's right-facing portrait with appropriate presidential inscriptions, rendered with the bronzed finish that gives the medal a dark, reflective surface quality achieved through chemical treatment at the Philadelphia Mint. The reverse carries the standard clasped-hands design with crossed peace pipe and tomahawk and the motto PEACE AND FRIENDSHIP. Tyler's presidency saw continued westward expansion and the annexation of Texas in 1845, both of which profoundly affected Native American nations across the southern plains and the Republic of Texas borderlands. Peace medals from his administration were distributed during negotiations with tribes in the newly acquired territories and along the frontier.

Rarity Notes

Bronzed examples are scarcer than standard bronze duplicates. The IP-21 die variety is less commonly encountered than the IP-23 version.

Cross References

Julian IP-21; PCGS #536680