1776 (ca. 1860) Declaration of Independence with Signatures Medal. Electrotype. Copper. 90.8 mm. By C.C. Wright, produced by Samuel H. Black. Musante GW-184, Baker-53M. Mint State.Unknown as a struck medal, and very rare as an electrotype, this impressive type features a view of the signing of the Declaration of Independence by C.C. Wright, with a reverse showing a facsimile of all 59 signatures on the Declaration, exactly as seen on the National Medallion plaque by electrotyper Samuel H. Black of New York City. Produced by electroforming the obverse and reverse separately, then carefully joining them together over a core of lead or similar metal. Careful examination of the edge will reveal a fine line running all the way around, delineating the two halves, but when viewing from the front or back, this piece has every appearance of being struck. This complete electrotype medal is very rare, and we cannot track a recent sale, however in 2012 we sold an electrotype of the reverse (signature side). A rare opportunity to make a fine addition to a sophisticated cabinet of Washingtoniana.
