1869 Pacific Railway Completion. By William Barber. HK-12, Julian CM-39. Rarity-5. Bronze. MS-66 BN (NGC). 45 mm. Handsome autumn-brown patina to the obverse, the reverse exhibits a blend of bolder golden-copper and olive-brown. Both sides are smooth and satiny in texture with outstanding premium Gem quality. Struck in the Philadelphia Mint from dies prepared by Chief Engraver William Barber, medals of this type commemorate completion of the first transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869, in a ceremony in Provo, Utah. Total mintage for bronze specimens amounted to just 496 pieces, of which this is certainly among the finest available to todays quality conscious collectors.
