1857 James Buchanan Indian Peace Medal. First Size. Bronzed Copper. 76 mm. Julian IP-36. Mint State.，Rich mahogany-brown patina supports some multicolored iridescence on both sides. A few carbon spots keep this piece from the Gem designation. Overall it is a handsome medal, above average among those occasionally seen in the marketplace. This example had (as did nearly all the Buchanan Indian Peace medals produced for the public), the older reverse with a settler explaining the benefits of civilization to a Native American instead of the then current "Indian Scalping" design used on medals actually presented to Native Americans. In the context of the Indian Peace medal series, that used here is rare and unusual. The dies are by Salathiel Ellis (obverse) and Joseph Willson (reverse).<br /><br />Buchanan is a sorry figure in the lineup of presidents. Inaugurated on March 4, 1857, he found himself working with a Congress that was sharply divided on the question of slavery. He attempted to please both the North and South factions and failed to please either side. <br />The Howard B. Teich Collection.
