1797 (ca. 1816) Halliday Medal. Musante GW-57, Baker-70C. Copper, Bronzed. Plain Rims. MS-65 (PCGS).53.7 mm. 1004.9 grains. A really remarkable example of this exceptionally well-rendered medal. The obverse is mottled with mahogany, chestnut and dark brown while close inspection under good light reveals nuances of pale blue in places. The reverse is more even light mahogany brown, a difference likely explained by long-term cabinet storage. Some prooflike texture is noted in the fields of both sides, but it is a bit more pronounced on the obverse adding to the "upon first glance" aesthetic appeal. Though we have sold several superb specimens of this classic medal in recent years, this is easily among the finest technically. The two highest graded competitors are the Syd Martin example, graded MS-65 by PCGS, but with a scattering of marks in the left reverse field, and that in our November 2021 sale of the E Pluribus Unum Collection, another PCGS MS-65. The latter piece realized $10,800, setting a new record for this medal at auction. In terms of surface quality, the August piece is the equivalent of the E Pluribus Unum specimen, however, that medal was the rarer variant with ornamented rims, so it could easily be argued that this is the finest plain rims example we have seen in bronze. Only a couple of very minuscule marks are noted under magnification, the two most visible being in the right obverse field (but you have to look for them). No rim or edge marks of any kind are seen. Apparently an early strike, as the fine finishing lines laid down by the engraver are clearly seen in the finer details of the design. This is especially evident throughout Washingtons portrait and coat. It is similarly sharp through the reverse ground, plinth and drapery. Strong evidence of two striking impressions is seen through the reverse, much like the William Spohn Baker specimen in our November 2019 sale.<p>As with other fine medals in his sale, this was acquired by Richard August in December 1966, in a direct purchase through Mayflower Coin Auctions of medals from the famous C.H. Stearns Collection. As given in the sale introduction, C.H. Stearns [Charles H.] was a contemporary and advisee of "Mickley, Parmalee [sic], Crosby and Appleton." Stearns was thus also a contemporary of William Spohn Baker. One can easily imagine these two 19th-century collectors competing for medals like this example when it last sold at auction, likely more than a century ago.From the Richard August Collection. Earlier ex Charles H. Stearns Collection (1820-1904); Clinton H. Stearns (1861-1936), by descent; George M. Stearns, by descent; Mayflower Coin Auctions, privately, following the C.H. Stearns sale of December 1966.
