Medal

Art Historical Context

This petite gilt brass medal, struck in 1864, captures the enduring reverence for George Washington through finely detailed profile portraits. Measuring just 15/16 in diameter, its compact size made it ideal as a personal token—perhaps worn as a pendant, carried in a pocket, or exchanged as a symbol of patriotism. The gilding technique, applying a thin layer of gold over brass, lent it a luxurious sheen, elevating a simple commemorative object into something both affordable and aspirational for everyday Americans. Crafted during the height of the Civil War, the medal reflects Washington's role as a unifying national icon amid national division. Profiles like these echoed classical Roman coinage, a style popularized in 19th-century American medals to evoke timeless virtue and leadership. Produced by an unknown artist, it exemplifies the era's booming industry of Washington memorabilia, which surged to bolster morale and rally support for the Union cause. Housed in The Metropolitan Museum of Art's American Wing and gifted by William H. Huntington in 1883, this artifact offers a tangible glimpse into how ordinary citizens honored the "Father of His Country" in turbulent times, blending artistry with profound cultural devotion.