(c.1874) Medal JAB-38 White Metal Masonic Temple

Coin Details

Auction Record

$720 MS64 11-30-2021 Stack's Bowers

Description

This circa 1874 white metal medal, cataloged as JAB-38, depicts the Masonic Temple — a significant architectural and fraternal subject for Bolen, whose Springfield community included active Masonic lodges. Masonic imagery has been among the most popular themes in American medallic art since the colonial period, reflecting the widespread influence of Freemasonry in American civic life. Bolen's Masonic Temple medal connects his personal medallic work to the fraternal collecting tradition that has its own dedicated community of specialist collectors. The white metal composition was appropriate for a medal intended for broad distribution within a fraternal context, where the symbolic value of the design outweighed the intrinsic metal value. JAB-38, produced in 1874, represents Bolen's continued activity well into the post-war decade.

Rarity Notes

JAB-38, white metal. Masonic subject appeals to both Bolen and fraternal medal collectors.

Cross References

PCGS #887231; JAB-38; Masonic Temple, White Metal