1909 United States Assay Commission Medal. By George T. Morgan. JK AC-53. Rarity-3. Bronze. MS-65 (NGC).40 mm x 57 mm, plaque. An especially attractive, fully original piece with deep golden-bronze patina overall. A few swirls of variegated color are scattered about, and they are mentioned here solely for accuracy. This medal represents a historic shift in materials used by the U.S. Mint, the introduction of true bronze alloy composed of copper, tin and zinc in place of the traditional bronzed copper. The new alloy was treated with sandblasting, whereas the bronzed copper pieces were often prooflike with mahogany or chocolate-brown patina. The present example is one of just 51 bronze examples of the 1909 Assay Commission medal produced.From the Larry Baber Collection. Earlier ex Heritages Long Beach Signature Auction of September 2006, lot 6604. Lot tag included.
