Undated (C. 1864) Washington Letter To Hamilton Medal. Copper. 59 mm. Musante GW-675, JAB-11; Baker-257A. MS-63RB (NGC).，A strikingly attractive example of this famous issue by John Adams Bolen, the largest of his works and one accomplished in fine style and high relief, showing his skill as an engraver and medalist. The obverse retains considerable original red, which is as unusual as it is appealing. The reverse has mellowed to medium chocolate brown, though hints of faded red and accents of pale blue iridescence are noted. A few old spots are scattered about, but considering the excellent condition and eye appeal otherwise, even a discerning collector might find these easily forgivable. Among the most well known of Bolens medals, this piece has long been considered an essential entry into specialized collections of George Washington medals, in addition. It is arguably one of the finest products within this specialty from the Civil War era, a period in which collecting such pieces was fevered. This issue is widely known to have been struck in silver, copper and white metal, all with very low mintages. One piece has been catalogued as "fire gilt," but it has not been seen in recent times. Bolen reported that 10 examples were struck in copper, while the ANS owns an example in copper numbered "14" on the edge. That piece came from Bolens granddaughter, suggesting this was the actual number made in this composition. Either way, all are rare and very desirable and this one comes with a superb provenance back to 1882. Further, it is quite likely that Bushnell bought it "new," directly from the maker.Donated by Stanley DeForest Scott to benefit the endowment campaign for the Executive Director position at the American Numismatic Society. Earlier from Charles I. Bushnell; S.H. & H. Chapmans sale of the Bushnell Collection, June 1882, lot 1411; T. Harrison Garrett ; Bowers and Ruddys sale of the Garrett Collection, Part IV, March 1981, lot 1824 (part); Gilbert Steinberg; Stacks sale of the Steinberg Collection, May 1992, lot 107.
