CVC & Collectables presents the 1889 Centennial of Our Nation Medal, cataloged as GW-1078, struck in white metal by Childs & Co. of Chicago to commemorate the 100th anniversary of George Washington’s first inauguration. Issued for the celebration held in Springfield, Illinois, this holed 37mm medal is exceptionally rare, with only 6 pieces known, making it a true R-8 on the rarity scale. Graded MS-62 by NGC, this example is well-preserved with bold detail and sharp relief for this fragile medal type.
Medal Highlights:
- Date: 1889
- Composition: White Metal
- Diameter: 37 mm
- Grade: NGC MS-62
- Catalog References: GW-1078, Douglas-51G, Rulau Political Medal series
- Manufacturer: Childs & Co., Chicago
- Edge: Holed for suspension (as issued)
- Strike Type: Medallic
- Rarity: R-8 (estimated 6 known to Rulau)
Obverse:
Bust of George Washington facing left with legend:
“UNITED STATES OF AMERICA / IN GOD WE TRUST”
Reverse:
Legend reads:
“THE CENTENNIAL OF OUR NATION / APRIL 30, 1789 – 1889 / COMMEMORATION / SPRINGFIELD ILLINOIS”
Encircled by a laurel wreath.
Collectibility:
The 1889 GW-1078 white metal medal is an extraordinary survivor from 19th-century political commemoratives. Its NGC MS-62 grade underscores its superior condition despite the softness of white metal and presence of the suspension hole (as originally issued). This is a key rarity for Washingtoniana, political medal collectors, and Illinois exposition medal enthusiasts.
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