1789 Washington Medal

Nice item, and the first that this oldtimer has seen. Baker says it's a Robinson copy, circa 1863, struck during the Civil War. It's probably been carefully preserved by various Washingtonia collectors ever since; this, as it's at least a choice unc - in my humble opinion.

All of the Lovett medals I've seen have been signed. Perhaps, since this was a copy, he left the signature off? He's one of the best 19th century engravers as this beauty attests. Great find!

That's a thought. Many medal collectors shun the slabs, but they are a good means of preservation. Given the potentially high grade of this one, I'd personally lean toward slabbing it.

As much as I can appreciate the design of this piece, the bird is one of the scrawniest I've ever seen. I've seen better legs on chickens! The image of Washington is far more impressive to me. He became more popularized during the Civil War as more farm boys took to the battlefield. Washington was then (1863) likened to Cincinnatus, the Roman general who left behind his farm and answered the call to military service when needed; hence, the issuance of medals such as yours.