Circa 1849 Twelve Stars medalet. Musante GW-179, Baker-647A. Copper. MS-65 BN (PCGS).14.6 mm. A lovely specimen of this tiny and very rare piece. Rich violet and blue iridescence highlights the slightly reflective fields, while traces of faded red remain in the recesses. The high rims are toned somewhat golden olive. Beautifully struck and superior in this respect to the only other one we recall having offered. Fully defined hair on the Washington portrait and complete execution of the tiny reverse stars are notable. This is quite similar to the Appleton specimen at MHS, plated in the Musante reference, though that piece is unlikely to ever be sold. Musante lists these in silver and brass, while the Sylvester Crosby specimen was called nickel in his 1883 sale. We have never seen any composition other than copper, and all are extremely rare. No one knows for sure who issued this piece or why, which is unfortunate considering its distinctive nature and rarity. It is dated to circa 1849 as it is believed that the 12 stars may represent the first 12 presidents of the United States, placing it during the administration of Zachary Taylor. Stylistically, there is no argument against this to be made. Musante notes an interesting possibility of a tie-in to an 1850 book by Edward Walker, titled <em>The Twelve Stars of our Republic</em>, which featured short biographies of the presidents.Ex William Spohn Baker Collection, to the Historical Society of Pennsylvania by bequest, November 15, 1897.
