(ca. 1858) Bronze Medal GW-130 - Civic Procession

Coin Details

Description

Cataloged as Baker 162 and Musante GW-130, this standard bronze striking of the Civic Procession Medal commemorates one of the most significant events in American political history: George Washington's inaugural procession through the streets of New York City on April 30, 1789. The obverse features Washington's bust, while the reverse depicts the grand civic procession that accompanied the new president from his residence at Franklin House on Cherry Street to Federal Hall on Wall Street, where he took the oath of office administered by Chancellor Robert R. Livingston. Produced circa 1858, this bronze version represents the most commonly encountered composition for the Civic Procession Medal, making it the standard entry point for collectors building a Washington medal cabinet. The medal's popularity stems from its direct connection to the founding moment of the American presidency, and the reverse scene preserves a visual record of the ceremonial pageantry that marked the transition from the Articles of Confederation government to the new constitutional republic. Among Washington medals, the Civic Procession design holds a position of particular historical importance, and this moderately scarce bronze striking provides accessibility to a medallic issue whose rarer compositions in silver and gold command substantially higher prices at auction.

Rarity Notes

Moderately scarce. The standard bronze striking is the most available version.

Cross References

Baker 162; Musante GW-130