Undated (1860) Abraham Lincoln Political Medal, or "Bramhalls Token." Second Obverse. Cunningham 36-710B, King-57, DeWitt-AL 1860-60. Brass. Plain Edge. 24 mm. Choice Mint State.A bright brassy-gold example kept from full Gem status by only a single light carbon spot on the obverse at the letter T in NOT. Struck from the second obverse die of this popular type, identifiable by the omission of the wreath, star and date. Edmund B. Sullivan (<em>American Political Badges and Medalets: 1789-1892</em>, 1981) provides interesting information about the production and distribution of this type:<p><em>"This new obverse die was made necessary by the fact that the preceding obverse die had been broken after several hundred had been struck. This new one was made so hurriedly, in order to supply the large demand, that the wreath and date were omitted. This piece is found in great numbers throughout New England and New York indicating a wide distribution. A member of the firm who struck them [Waterbury Company of Waterbury, Connecticut] told me that he had heard workmen in their shop recalling how these tokens were shipped by the kegful during the campaign."</em><p>While plentiful in an absolute sense, survivors seldom approach the quality and eye appeal offered here. A find for the advanced collector.From the Q. David Bowers Collection. Earlier ex Zabriskie Collection. Collector tag with attribution and provenance notes included.
