(c.1867) Medal JAB-24a Copper J.A. Bolen

Coin Details

Description

This circa 1867 copper medal, cataloged as JAB-24a, bears the name and the portrait of J.A. Bolen himself. Self-referential medals are among the most personal items in Bolen's series, serving as both calling cards and artistic self-expressions. The "a" suffix in the catalog number indicates this is a variant die state or composition variant of the standard JAB-24 design. Bolen's self-portrait or signature medals were distributed to fellow collectors and numismatic correspondents as tokens of professional identity, functioning in the same way that printers' sample cards served the printing trade. The copper composition was Bolen's standard medium for widely distributed pieces. These personal medals provide the most direct connection to Bolen as an individual, offering insight into how he wished to present himself to the numismatic community of his era.

Rarity Notes

JAB-24a, copper. Bolen self-referential medal. Personal pieces distributed to fellow collectors.

Cross References

PCGS #600211; JAB-24a; J.A. Bolen, Copper