1876 United States Assay Commission Medal. By William Barber. JK AC-15, Musante GW-869, Baker-347. Rarity-5. Bronzed Copper. MS-65 BN (NGC).33 mm. Rich mahogany-brown patina with slight marbling of deep rose on the obverse. Both sides are exceptionally smooth and fully deserving of the coveted MS-65 numeric grade from NGC.<p>The Julian-Keusch reference on Assay Commission medals reports that Mint Director Henry R. Linderman suggested modifying the reverse of the trade dollar in 1876 to reflect the United States centennial celebration that year. His suggestion was blocked by Philadelphia Mint Superintendent James Pollock, who pointed out that this would require an act of Congress. Instead, Lindermans idea found expression on the reverse of the 1876 Assay Commission medal, with its legend YEAR ONE HUNDRED / OF AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE around the border, circular laurel wreath enclosing the inscription 1776 / ANNUAL / ASSAY / 1876 in the center. With the portrait of our nations first president on the obverse this, then, is a triply sought-after medal honoring the Assay Commission, Washington and the United States Centennial.From our (Bowers and Merenas) Russell B. Patterson Collection sale, March 1985, lot 1620; Presidential Coin & Antique Co., Inc.s Thompson & Gotham Collections sale, June 2008, lot 410. Lot tags included.
