1871 David Rittenhouse Medal. By William Barber. Julian MT-1. Silver. MS-62 (NGC). 46 mm. This is a simply outstanding example of an elusive and historically significant type. Prooflike fields support satiny design elements, the obverse richly toned in iridescent olive-gray with pretty golden-apricot, salmon pink and cobalt blue undertones. The more lightly patinated reverse is dressed in light golden-olive iridescence that appears to drift toward the border. Sharply struck with only minor handling marks precluding a higher grade. Part of James Pollocks earnestly desired Medal Series of the U.S. Mint, this type is avidly sought by collectors today in honor of Rittenhouses role in producing Americas earliest coinage. Silver impressions are quite rare and, indeed, this is our first offering in this fabric in many years. According to our consignor, the American Philosophical Society has a letter of transmittal for their Rittenhouse medal, from the Mints Chief Engraver William Barber and dated May 15, 1871, noting the American Philosophical Society bust of Rittenhouse was used as a model. From the Collection of Leonard Augsburger, co-author of The Secret History of the First U.S. Mint.
