Indian Peace Medals

1881 James A. Garfield Indian Peace Medal. Oval. Julian IP-44, Prucha-55. Bronze. Extremely Fine.

75.6 mm. 2111.3 grains. Deep golden olive bronze, the rims and motifs are a bit lighter than the darker brown fields, creating nice contrast. Lightly worn, with a few areas of uneven patina and a few tiny rim nicks, but no serious damage. Microporous surfaces are consistent with early 20th-century finishes from the U.S. Mint. This is a slightly later product than the original offered above, but considering the rarity of the earliest Garfield medals, and commensurate cost in acquiring one, this would serve as a worthwhile filler. It is housed in a custom wood case that seems contemporary to the medal itself. The lid of the box is inset with a small ivory-colored shield, while the back of the box bears a faint engraving, which appears to read: “Emma Van Schaik / [illegible] Springs / NY(?) / 1879. An interesting piece!

From the Norman G. Peters Collection.

Estimate: $ 400