(c.1858) Medal GW-130-R2 Brass - 2nd Restrike Civic Procession

Coin Details

Description

Struck circa 1858 as a second restrike (R2) in brass, this Civic Procession Medal commemorates George Washington's inaugural parade of April 30, 1789, when the first President traveled from his residence at Cherry Street to Federal Hall in New York City for the swearing-in ceremony. Cataloged as Baker 162 and Musante GW-130, the medal's obverse depicts Washington on horseback amid the procession, while the reverse carries an inscription documenting the historic event. This brass striking is distinguished from the more common bronze and copper restrikes by its yellowish color and distinct alloy composition, making it immediately identifiable in hand. The second restrike designation (R2) indicates this piece was produced during a later restriking campaign using the original dies, which were periodically returned to press throughout the mid-nineteenth century to satisfy collector demand — a practice common among American medal dies held by private firms and eventually the U.S. Mint. The rarity notes confirm that brass restrikes are uncommon for this medal, as the majority of restrike production employed bronze or copper planchets. Washington medals form one of the most extensively collected series in American numismatics, with the Baker and Musante catalog numbers serving as the primary reference systems — Baker's 1885 work established the foundational numbering, while Musante's modern revision expanded and refined the classification. This brass R2 strikes a balance between historical significance and obtainability that makes it appealing to both Washington medal specialists and general colonial-era collectors.

Rarity Notes

Rare. Brass restrikes are uncommon for this medal.

Cross References

Baker 162; Musante GW-130