1862 Abraham Lincoln Indian Peace Medal. Silver. First Size. Second Reverse. Julian IP-38, Prucha-51. AU-55 (NGC).170.35 grams, per the NGC holder (2628.9 grains). A very pleasant example of a medal that was clearly awarded. The obverse exhibits deep, almost slate, patina over the entire surface. Traces of residue are noted in some recesses of Lincolns portrait. The reverse is a bit lighter gray with faint gold and blue overtones, and darker toning at the rims. Both sides are peppered with small nicks, scratches and bumps which are expected for an awarded medal like this and actually add to the appeal because these marks set a medal like this clearly apart from examples struck for collectors. This said, there is really no serious damage and the overall aesthetic is quite pleasing. This a new medal to our roster of known specimens, bringing the total number of large-size Lincolns to 33, though this includes obvious collector strikes including some that were never even pierced. From a purely medallic art viewpoint, the occasionally encountered, superbly preserved collector strike might be deemed highly desirable, but from an historical perspective--that which most heavily drives the market for Peace Medals, there is nothing better than a nice one that was clearly worn by a Native American chief, as offered here.<p>
