(Ca. 1860) Bronze Medal Old Hickory Took the Responsibility

Coin Details

Description

This bronze medal from circa 1860 bears the inscription "Old Hickory Took the Responsibility," referencing President Andrew Jackson's famous willingness to act decisively and accept the consequences. Jackson earned the nickname "Old Hickory" during the War of 1812 for his toughness, and his presidency (1829-1837) was defined by bold, controversial actions including the destruction of the Second Bank of the United States, the Indian Removal Act, and the Nullification Crisis with South Carolina. The phrase "took the responsibility" became a rallying cry for Jackson's supporters, who admired his decisive leadership style, and a term of opprobrium for his opponents, who viewed his actions as autocratic. The circa 1860 date places this medal during the secession crisis, when Jacksonian principles of strong federal authority were being invoked by those opposing Southern secession. Political medals referencing past presidents during contemporary crises were a common form of political expression in nineteenth-century America.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. Pre-Civil War political medal referencing Jackson. Political medals from this era survive in modest numbers.

Cross References

PCGS #967495; Andrew Jackson; Old Hickory; Took the Responsibility; c.1860