The Early Republic

The early years of the Republic, from the adoption of the Constitution and presidency of George Washington, to the death of Zachary Taylor at the midpoint of the 19th century, frame the selection of items featured in our October update. This period presents a greater challenge for the collector of political Americana, as campaigns in the modern sense did not start until the 1820s, and significant production of political kitsch wasn't seen until 1840. 

 The principle form of material culture available to collectors is medallic; i.e. tokens and medals stuck, first in England and later America, honoring the presidents and contenders for the presidential throne (and occasionally to ridicule or lampoon the same). This month, we are pleased to present our most extensive offering of early tokens and medals, the first installment of a major collection we acquired in September. More will be coming in future updates.

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