(c.1826) Medal Semicentennial of Independence Copper Trial

Coin Details

Auction Record

$1,560 VF25BN 03-25-2020 Stack's Bowers

Description

This copper trial piece from circa 1826 commemorates the semicentennial (fiftieth anniversary) of American independence. The year 1826 held particular significance for the semicentennial — both Thomas Jefferson and John Adams, the two surviving signers who had played the most prominent roles in drafting and defending the Declaration of Independence, died on July 4, 1826, exactly fifty years after the Declaration's adoption. This coincidence struck the American public as providential. The "copper trial" designation indicates this is a test striking or preliminary piece rather than a finished production medal, making it of particular interest to die variety specialists. The semicentennial generated numerous commemorative items including medals, tokens, and printed ephemera, documenting one of the most emotionally resonant anniversaries in American history. Trial pieces from this period provide insight into the production process and may represent rejected designs or die tests for the final commemorative medals.

Rarity Notes

Rare. Copper trial piece. Die trials from early American commemorative medal production are scarce and historically significant.

Cross References

PCGS #810691; Semicentennial of Independence 1826; Copper Trial