1798 Washington Seasons medal. The Sower. Musante GW-68, Baker-171A, Julian IP-53. Copper. SP-58 (PCGS).48.2 mm. 744.7 grains. Rosy copper on the obverse indicative of an old cleaning, though the metal has slightly mellowed and darkened over the apparently long span of years since this transpired. Still, somewhat aggressive hairlines remain in the reflective fields. The reverse is similar, but even more toned, with some deeper orange in the fields than on the obverse and accents of blue and violet. This side is also deeply reflective and the aesthetic impact of the hairlines diminished by the busier design. A few light marks are noted, but none is serious; this was among those struck for collectors without a suspension loop. It is also from the late state of the reverse die. The Baker number is on the edge in red.<p>As with all Seasons medals, this is rare in any format or composition and is among the most desired of early American medals. The series, as discussed in the introduction, represents a unique tie between the young nation, its first three presidents, its indigenous peoples and its desire to expand westward. The history of these medals is thus multi-faceted and includes some of the most compelling subjects of early America.Ex William Spohn Baker Collection, to the Historical Society of Pennsylvania by bequest, November 15, 1897.
