1801 (prior to 1886) Thomas Jefferson Indian Peace Medal. Bronze. Second Size. Original Dies. Julian IP-3, Prucha-39. MS-62 BN (NGC). 74.8 mm. 4153.0 grains. An exceptionally attractive example of this popular medal that enjoys strong appeal due to the significant rarity (and price) of silver originals from the same dies. The bronzed surfaces are deep reddish mahogany brown with mild chestnut highlights on the most exposed areas of relief. Sharp and glossy with texture that is slightly more lustrous than prooflike, yet the visual impact is probably best described as something in between. A few minor handling marks are seen, but the surfaces also exhibit fine spalling or rust indicative of a much a later state of the dies than seen on the original medals in silver. However, the same dies were indeed used for both issues, and the prominent reverse crack from the rim at 2 oclock to the base of the thumb is the easiest proof to see of this. The identical prominent break is visible on the silver original in the previous lot.<p>According to Julian, the dies for this medal had been replaced by October 8, 1886. The new reverse had a decidedly more modern appearance, similar to the Zachary Taylor reverse for 1849, most easily distinguished by thicker letters and distinctively flat-topped letter A punches. Earlier variations of the medal such as this, from the original dies, are quite scarce and enjoy strong demand. As a result, they also command considerable premiums over the later iterations as collectors appreciate not only their rarity but their closer association with the prized silver originals. The landmark John J. Ford, Jr. Collection included only a single example of this medal from the original dies, in similar condition to this piece, which has been off the market for more than four decades. From the Ronald A. Slovick Family Collection. Earlier from Johnson and Jensens sale of May 1982, lot 873.
