Circa 1808 Peace of 1783 Medal. Musante GW-92, Baker-58A, Julian CM-5. Copper, Bronzed. SP-62 (PCGS).

40.3 mm. 548.1 grains. A really beautiful example of this early American commemorative medal. Heavily mottled surfaces feature deep mahogany, a nearly cherry-skin red and deep steely overtones. The Mint had difficulty with the process of bronzing in this period and many of the bronzes from Sansom’s issues are uneven, sometimes very unattractively so. This one is an exception in the latter circumstance if not the former, as the bronzing was clearly a problem, yet the aesthetic result is most pleasing. Soft satin luster, a bold impression and virtually no handling evidence worthy of mention. A very historic issue from the early Mint, conceived and designed by Philadelphia Quaker Joseph Sansom, who himself was an accomplished silhouette artist. Sansom successfully petitioned James Madison to have John Reich cut his dies and the Mint to strike his medals. This design, the last of four issued in his complete series, had been “intended” but was not yet ready for sale, as of December 14, 1807, so it was probably struck early in 1808. It was struck in commemoration of the Peace of 1783, the treaty that brought an end to the American Revolution and final acknowledged victory to a new Nation.

From the Sydney F. Martin Collection. Purchased on eBay, September 2001.