The Hidden History Behind the 1917 George Washington Medal

A Relic of America’s Centennial Celebrations

Every relic tells a story. To understand this George Washington medal, we have to look at the era in which it was created. The year 1917 marked a significant period in American history—the nation was preparing to enter World War I, but also celebrating the centennial of the War of 1812 and the 130th anniversary of Washington’s presidency. This medal, likely produced by Dieges & Clust in 1915, represents more than just a commemorative piece; it’s a window into early 20th century American culture and values.

The Dieges & Clust Connection

The medallion bears striking similarities to the Dieges & Clust medal from 1915, a prestigious New York-based manufacturer known for producing high-quality military and commemorative medals. Founded in 1898, Dieges & Clust had established itself as the premier maker of military insignia and awards, later becoming the sole manufacturer of the Purple Heart. Their choice to feature Washington’s profile on this medal speaks volumes about the enduring reverence for the nation’s first president during this era.

Manufacturing Mysteries

The unusual surface texture noted by forum members suggests this piece may have been cast rather than struck. This manufacturing technique was common for privately produced medals of the period, allowing for greater detail in the portrait while keeping production costs manageable. The uniface design (with only one side bearing an image) was typical of pocket pieces and membership tokens, which were popular during this period as both personal mementos and symbols of affiliation.

The Engraving Mystery

The reverse engraving of “Harry Eisman” and “1917” transforms this from a simple commemorative piece into a personal artifact. The practice of engraving medals was common in the early 1900s, particularly for items given as awards or membership tokens. The script engraving style suggests a personal connection, possibly indicating this was a presentation piece or a memento of some significant event in Mr. Eisman’s life.

Potential Fraternal Connections

The mention of linked rings by one forum member opens an intriguing possibility. The early 1900s saw a boom in fraternal organizations, with groups like the Odd Fellows, Freemasons, and Knights of Pythias playing significant roles in American social life. These organizations often used Washington’s image in their iconography, viewing him as a symbol of virtue and leadership. The medal could have been a membership token or award within such an organization.

The Silver Question

While the original poster believed the medal to be silver, the surface characteristics suggest it might be a different metal, possibly white metal or a silver-plated base. This was common for privately produced medals of the period, as pure silver pieces were typically reserved for more formal awards or higher-end commemoratives. The choice of metal often reflected the intended use and audience for the piece.

Historical Context of 1917

The year 1917 was pivotal in American history. As the nation prepared to enter World War I, there was a renewed focus on patriotic symbols and national unity. Washington, as the father of the country, became an even more powerful symbol during this time. Medals like this one served not just as commemorative items but as tools for fostering national pride and unity during a time of impending conflict.

Preservation and Care

The discussion about removing the medal from its holder highlights an important aspect of collecting historical items. Proper preservation techniques are crucial for maintaining the integrity of such pieces. The advice to use a wooden toothpick to carefully remove the medal demonstrates the care needed when handling historical artifacts, particularly those that may have personal engravings or historical significance.

Collectibility and Value

While the exact value of this particular medal would depend on various factors including its metal content, condition, and historical significance, pieces like this hold value beyond their material worth. The combination of Washington’s image, the Dieges & Clust connection, the personal engraving, and the historical context of 1917 makes this a unique piece of American history. Such items are particularly valuable to collectors interested in early 20th century Americana, military history, or fraternal organization memorabilia.

Conclusion

This George Washington medal represents more than just a piece of metal; it’s a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in American history. From its possible origins with the prestigious Dieges & Clust company to its personal connection with Harry Eisman, and from its potential fraternal organization ties to its creation during a time of national transformation, this medal tells multiple stories. For collectors and historians alike, pieces like this serve as valuable windows into the past, helping us understand the cultural and social dynamics of early 20th century America.

As we continue to uncover the stories behind such artifacts, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complex tapestry of American history and the many ways in which people have chosen to commemorate and celebrate their heritage. This medal, with its mysterious origins and personal connections, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of George Washington and the evolving nature of American commemorative culture in the early 1900s.

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