Undated Washington Success Medal - Small Reeded Edge

Coin Details

Description

The Washington Success medal in small format with reeded edge is the edge variant companion to the plain-edge small Success token, both produced in Birmingham, England during the 1790s for the American market. The reeded edge was imparted by a collar die during striking, giving this variety a more finished appearance than the plain-edge version. At approximately 23mm in diameter, the small-module tokens were practical circulating pieces, sized to pass alongside copper cents and halfpence in everyday transactions. The obverse carries the distinctive crude Washington bust with SUCCESS TO THE UNITED STATES, and the reverse displays the heraldic eagle common to all Success token varieties. The reeding distinguishes this piece from the plain-edge version and may indicate either a different production batch or an intentional market differentiation. Some numismatists have suggested that reeded-edge pieces were produced slightly later than plain-edge examples, as the use of collar dies became more standard in Birmingham token production through the 1790s. The small reeded-edge Success token is a staple of Washington token collections, offering an affordable entry point into early American Washingtoniana while presenting genuine challenges in locating well-preserved examples.

Rarity Notes

Moderately scarce. Slightly less available than the plain-edge small variety. Higher-grade examples with sharp reeding and clear portrait details are uncommon.

Cross References

Baker-266A; Musante GW-42; PCGS #783