(c.1866) Medal JAB-23 Copper Springfield Antiquarians

Coin Details

Auction Record

$360 MS63BN 08-22-2021 Heritage Auctions

Description

This circa 1866 copper medal, cataloged as JAB-23, commemorates the Springfield Antiquarians — the antiquarian society in Springfield, Massachusetts, Bolen's home city. Bolen was an active member of the local antiquarian and numismatic community, and this medal reflects his engagement with the cultural institutions of Springfield during the post-Civil War period. The Springfield Antiquarians were part of the broader movement of local historical societies that flourished in nineteenth-century New England, dedicated to preserving local history and artifacts. Bolen's medal for the society combines his professional skills as a die sinker with his personal interests as a collector and historian. The copper composition was standard for Bolen's locally distributed pieces, providing durability and an attractive warm tone that complemented the antiquarian subject matter.

Rarity Notes

JAB-23, copper. Local Springfield institution. Of particular interest to collectors of Massachusetts numismatic history.

Cross References

PCGS #629253; JAB-23; Springfield Antiquarians, Copper