No Date Medal GW-Unlisted Bronzed Copper 32mm Washington-Steuben

Coin Details

Description

Unlisted in both the Musante GW catalog and Baker's reference, this undated 32 mm bronzed copper medal honoring Washington and Baron von Steuben occupies a unique uncataloged position. The bronzed finish — a chemical patination over copper — gives a darker, more formal appearance than the brass counterpart using the same dies. The subject commemorates Washington's partnership with von Steuben, the Prussian officer whose systematic training at Valley Forge in 1778 transformed the Continental Army into an effective fighting force. Von Steuben's drill manual became the standard American military text for decades. Dual Washington-Steuben medals are uncommon in the Washington series, which typically features Washington alone or paired with Franklin or Lafayette. The "GW-Unlisted" and "Baker unlisted" designations indicate this was not included in standard references, suggesting a later discovery, very small production, or a variant catalogers overlooked. The bronzed copper version may be scarcer than brass, as bronzing added cost and was typically reserved for discerning collectors. Rare.

Rarity Notes

Rare. Bronzed copper version may be scarcer than brass.

Cross References

GW-Unlisted; Baker unlisted