Undated (ca. 1812) George III Indian Peace Medal. Large Size. Solid Silver. 77 mm. 1353.7 grains. Adams-7.3, Betts-438, Eimer-736. Choice Very Fine.Pierced at 12 oclock, as typical. The original ornamented suspension loop is intact and undamaged, a quite desirable feature that is frequently lost. The overall sharpness is better than the assigned grade, which takes into account a bit of waviness in the metal. These large and relatively thin silver medals saw extensive use during the years of the American Revolution up to the War of 1812 and were frequently worn by their recipients and their descendants until their hangers fell off and, occasionally, until the suspension piercings wore through. This one is really quite nice. A few scattered nicks and marks are noted both on the surfaces and the rims, but it is very handsome overall and nicer than many seen. Pleasing light silver gray with somewhat deeper patina in the recesses and outlining the design features, while nuances of soft violet may be seen in the fields. Though a British medal, collectors of American Indian Peace medals or historic American medals in general usually strive to own at least one of these iconic pieces. The medals were distributed by King Georges agents to Native Americans who agreed to allegiance with the British during the Revolution, the War of 1812, and in the rough and uncertain period in between. Meanwhile, American agents were establishing their own relationships with local indigenous peoples where they could, and distributing their own medals of allegiance from the American presidents. All such medals are fascinating tangible artifacts from this most extraordinary period of American history.
