(ca. 1789) Washington Inaugural Button. GW and Linked States. Cobb-9, Albert WI-4A, DeWitt-GW 1789-9, Baker-1003. Brass. AU-55 (PCGS).34.2 mm 105.7 grains. Original shank intact, but flattened. A rather high grade survivor of this popular and historic issue retaining considerable tinning on both sides, a finishing that would have given this button a visually striking bright silver appearance upon a gentlemans coat in 1789. The losses of tinning on the obverse reveal deep brown copper while a couple of areas have toned to rich coppery orange, giving the button a mottled appearance. There is slight waviness to the flan, but this is a very nicely preserved button that clearly wasnt worn long. The details are crisp and though there is a trace of superficial oxidation, this is by no means a ground find. Most of the tinning is largely complete on the reverse, too.<p>The United States House of Representatives first successfully met on April 1, 1789, and the Senate on April 6, the day both chambers convened for the first time in a joint session, allowing for the counting of electoral votes and certification of presidential and vice-presidential elections. John Adams as Vice President and presiding officer of the Senate, was sworn in on April 21, and Washington was administered his oath of office on April 30, 1789 at Federal Hall, in New York City. This button was one of several types produced to memorialize that event and to celebrate Washington as the first chief executive. While some similar buttons seem a little more generic in theme, this, with GW and LONG LIVE THE PRESIDENT leave no question as to its specificity of purpose. As such, at least one example belongs in any serious collection of George Washington medals.From the Richard August Collection.
