1799 (1800) Washington Funeral Urn Medal. Musante GW-70, Baker-166C, Dies 1-B. White Metal. Fine-12 (PCGS). Pierced for suspension as 12 oclock, as all seen. The dies for these medals were cut by Jacob Perkins of Newburyport, Massachusetts, and the pieces were struck in early 1800 in preparation for the February 22nd civic funeral procession in Boston. There are at least six die combinations known, suggestive of a large production and they seem to have been distributed widely. However, in all metals but gold they are often seen in hard worn to Very Fine condition, as here. White metal pieces are often pested and deep gray, with other impairments in the soft metal. The offered specimen is superior in this regard with warm, even color in pewter gray to surfaces that are smooth apart from light to moderate marks that are commensurate with the assigned grade. Isolated softness in peripheral areas is noted, but most major design elements are discernible, and many are quite bold. All example of this type are highly desired, and well worn pieces that are as nicely preserved as this one are very much prized. PCGS# 410788.
