(c.1875) Medal JAB-K-13 White Metal Jefferson Insurance Company

Coin Details

Auction Record

$360 AU58 11-30-2021 Stack's Bowers

Description

This circa 1875 white metal medal, cataloged as JAB-K-13, depicts the Jefferson Insurance Company — a commercial subject unusual in the Bolen series, which more typically features historical, political, or patriotic themes. The "K" prefix indicates a Kline combination or restrike rather than an original Bolen pairing. Insurance companies were among the most prominent commercial enterprises in nineteenth-century American cities, and medallic advertising by insurance firms was not uncommon. The Jefferson Insurance Company medal may combine a portrait of Thomas Jefferson from Bolen's die inventory with insurance company text, creating a commercial application for dies originally produced for collector medalets. White metal was the practical composition for commercially distributed pieces where production cost was a significant consideration.

Rarity Notes

JAB-K-13, white metal. Commercial subject Kline piece. Unusual commercial application of Bolen dies.

Cross References

PCGS #887082; JAB-K-13; Jefferson Insurance Company, White Metal