THE GEORGE WASHINGTON OF VIRGINIA MEDAL

A unique example of the George Washington of Virginia medal restruck in gold in 1883 highlights Ira & Larry Goldberg Coins & Collectibles Inc.’s Pre-Long Beach Auction Aug. 31 and Sept. 1.

The restrike medal was produced under commission from Baltimore numismatist T. Harrison Garrett.

The gold restrike medal, recently graded and encapsulated by NGC, is based on the Baker 64 variety as cataloged in Medallic Portraits of Washington by W.S. Baker. The restrike medal is reported to have been struck in January 1883, according to the Baker reference.

Measuring 34.3 millimeters in diameter with a plain edge, the high relief gold medal weighs 2.3 ounces and is 4.5 millimeters thick.

According to the auction lot description, the dies from which the Washington medal was restruck in gold were originally prepared by German-born engraver Selig Baumgarten circa 1860.

One of Baumgarten’s sons, Herman Baumgarten, later engraved the 1877 version of the Great Seal of the United States.

To read the complete article, see: Unique George Washington of Virginia medal in gold highlights Goldberg Long Beach sale (www.coinworld.com/insights/unique-george-washington-of-virginia-medal-restruck-in-gold.html)

Wayne Homren, Editor

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