1792 Washington President Large Eagle - Ornamented Edge Half Dollar

Coin Details

Description

Cataloged as Baker 25, Musante GW-22, and Whitman 10680, this 1792 Washington President half dollar pattern combines the large eagle reverse — the most imposing of the eagle reverse designs used on Washington patterns — with an ornamented (decorated) edge featuring a repeating vine-and-leaf or similar decorative motif impressed into the edge of the planchet. The ornamented edge adds a third dimension of artistry beyond the obverse portrait and reverse eagle, distinguishing this variant from the plain and lettered edge types cataloged under adjacent Baker numbers. The large eagle reverse displays a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings surrounded by thirteen stars representing the original states, a composition that anticipates the Great Seal imagery that would eventually become standard on American coinage. Extremely rare, the ornamented edge large eagle configuration is one of the rarest among the various 1792 Washington pattern half dollar combinations, and its appearance at auction constitutes a major numismatic event. These patterns were produced during the critical period when the design of American coinage was being actively debated, with competing visions ranging from Washington portrait types to allegorical Liberty figures. The ornamental edge work demonstrates sophisticated die-cutting and collar technology that would have been available to the pattern's manufacturer, likely a skilled British firm experienced in producing tokens and medals for the American market.

Rarity Notes

Extremely rare. The ornamented edge large eagle is one of the rarest Washington patterns.

Cross References

Baker 25; Musante GW-22; Whitman 10680