(c.1860) Medal Satterlee-10 Bronze James Madson Residence

Coin Details

Auction Record

$144 MS64BN 06-23-2020 Stack's Bowers

Description

This bronze medal from circa 1860, cataloged as Satterlee-10, depicts the residence of James Madison. The medal title notes "James Madson Residence" with a misspelling of Madison's name — a die-cutting error that has become a diagnostic feature of this variety. Madison's primary residence was Montpelier in Orange County, Virginia, a plantation that he inherited from his father and expanded throughout his lifetime. Madison retired to Montpelier after serving two terms as president (1809-1817) and spent his remaining years there, dying in 1836 as the last surviving member of the Constitutional Convention. The bronze composition indicates a higher-quality production than typical white metal commemorative medals. The presidential residence medal series documented the domestic settings of American leaders at a time when the "cult of domesticity" placed great emphasis on the home as a reflection of personal character. A president's residence was seen as evidence of his taste, values, and social standing, making architectural medals a form of political commentary as well as historical documentation.

Rarity Notes

Bronze medal, circa 1860. Satterlee-10. James Madison residence. Notable "Madson" misspelling. Presidential home medal series.

Cross References

PCGS #803552; Satterlee-10; James Madison residence; Montpelier, Virginia; "Madson" misspelling