1790 Manly medal. Original dies. J. MANLY & c. removed from the reverse. Musante GW-10, Baker-61A. White Metal. SP-58 (PCGS).48.2 mm. 445.5 grains. Fairly uniform pewter gray on the obverse with the fields being just a little lighter in tone. Beyond a short scratch on Washington’s cheek and a couple of minor marks nestled in the lines of the hair, there is little to report in terms of flaws. The reverse is even nicer, with more generous luster in the fields and a brighter surface. A trace of darker patina is noted at the N of PRESIDENT and both sides exhibit evenly distributed microscopic speckles. As nicely made as it is preserved, with the details sharp and even on both sides. No clear evidence of double striking is seen, which seems to indicate the limitations of the maker’s equipment, as it is usually the case that those in the harder metals show clear double impressions, usually on the reverse.<p>The original announcement and call for subscriptions for the Manly medals offered these pieces in “fine white metal to resemble silver, for one dollar; a fine gold-coloured metal, for two dollars; of fine silver for four dollars; and of gold in proportion to weight.” The white metal versions were to be delivered in 10 days, and the others “as soon as possible, when ordered.” This suggests that the maker likely had the least expensive composition ready for production, but intended to order brass (the “fine, gold-coloured metal”), silver and gold only as needed, likely due to the expense involved in acquiring the more precious metals. It would seem that the brass versions were seen as either the most handsome or the best value, as there were certainly many more sold in brass than any other composition. Today, specimens in this, the least expensive metal, are far rarer than the brass impressions, while silver ones are virtually never seen and only a single gold piece is known.<p>This is one of 23 specimens known to us in white metal from the original dies, counting pieces both with Manly’s name and with it removed. Only five or six of the white metal examples have the name removed, and this is perhaps the second finest among them. It has been nearly a decade since we have handled its equal.Ex William Spohn Baker Collection, to the Historical Society of Pennsylvania by bequest, November 15, 1897.
