Finding George Washington Early 1900s Medal in the Wild: A Cherry Picker’s Guide

Uncovering Hidden Treasures: The George Washington Early 1900s Medal

You don’t always need a dealer to find this. Here is what to look for when searching through circulation or bulk lots.

Historical Significance

The George Washington medal from the early 1900s represents a fascinating period in American commemorative art. These medals were often produced to honor the nation’s first president during the patriotic fervor surrounding significant anniversaries or events. The particular piece discussed in our forum thread appears to be from 1917, a time when America was on the brink of entering World War I.

Medallic portraits of Washington were popular subjects for artists and mints of the era. They were frequently used, reused, and copied, making identification challenging but also creating opportunities for collectors to discover rare variations. The example in question bears similarities to the Dieges & Clust medal from 1915, though with notable differences that suggest it may be a unique piece or a rare variety.

Identifying Key Markers

When searching through bulk lots, estate sales, or even circulation, several key markers can help identify these Washington medals:

• Date Range: Look for pieces dated in the early 1900s, particularly around 1915-1917
• Obverse Design: Uniface pieces with George Washington’s bust facing left are common for this era
• Reverse Features: While many are blank, some feature engravings or inscriptions
• Material Assessment: Though often thought to be silver, many are actually made from other metals or alloys

The forum discussion reveals an interesting detail about the reverse of this particular medal. What was initially thought to be blank actually contains an engraving – the name “Harry Eisman” and the date 1917. This personalization suggests the medal may have been a membership piece or commemorative item for an individual, possibly connected to an organization like the Odd Fellows, as one forum member speculated.

Authentication and Examination Techniques

Proper examination is crucial when identifying potential treasures. The forum contributors offered valuable advice for collectors:

Use a pointy wooden toothpick to pierce the clear plastic at the edge of the piece, then bend the cardboard back at that hole and it should pop the medal through the plastic. This technique allows for better photography without damaging the piece or exposing dangerous staple points.

When examining potential finds, pay attention to the surface quality. The discussion noted that the surfaces of this piece appear “odd for a struck piece,” suggesting it may have been cast rather than struck. This manufacturing method can affect both the numismatic value and authenticity of the piece.

Material Composition and Testing

Many collectors initially assume these medals are silver due to their appearance and historical context. However, the forum discussion highlights the importance of proper material identification:

• Visual inspection alone is often insufficient
• Weight and magnetic testing can provide initial clues
• Professional testing may be necessary for accurate composition determination
• Surface patina and wear patterns can indicate age and authenticity

Value Considerations

The value of these early 1900s Washington medals varies significantly based on several factors:

• Rarity: Unique engravings or limited production runs increase value
• Condition: Well-preserved pieces command higher prices
• Historical Significance: Connection to specific events or organizations enhances collectibility
• Material: Silver content, if verified, adds intrinsic value
• Provenance: Documented history or connection to notable individuals increases interest

The personalized nature of the piece in question – with the engraving of “Harry Eisman” – could make it particularly interesting to collectors specializing in personalized memorabilia or those researching local history from 1917.

Where to Find These Medals

Successful cherry picking requires knowing where to look. Consider these sources:

• Estate Sales: Often contain overlooked numismatic items
• Antique Shops: May have bulk lots or mixed boxes of items
• Online Auctions: Look for poorly described items that might be undervalued
• Flea Markets: Vendors may not recognize the significance of these pieces
• Family Collections: Older relatives may have inherited such items

Preservation and Care

Once you’ve identified a potentially valuable piece, proper care is essential:

1. Handle with clean, dry hands or cotton gloves
2. Store in archival-quality holders or albums
3. Avoid cleaning, which can damage patina and reduce value
4. Document any provenance or historical information
5. Consider professional conservation for valuable pieces

Conclusion

The George Washington early 1900s medal represents an exciting opportunity for collectors and cherry pickers. While not all pieces will be silver or exceptionally valuable, the historical significance and potential for unique discoveries make them worthy of attention. The personalized example discussed in the forum thread – with its engraving of “Harry Eisman” from 1917 – demonstrates how these medals can offer a tangible connection to individual stories from America’s past.

Successful collecting requires patience, knowledge, and a keen eye for detail. By understanding the key markers, knowing where to search, and properly examining potential finds, collectors can uncover hidden treasures that others might overlook. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a curious beginner, the world of early 20th century commemorative medals offers rich rewards for those willing to explore it.

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