Undated Washington Success Medal - Large Plain Edge

Coin Details

Description

Struck in England to celebrate George Washington and the success of the American republic, this undated large-format Success medal measures approximately 34 mm in diameter with a plain (unlettered) edge. Cataloged as Baker 265, Musante GW-42, and Whitman 10890, the obverse features a bust of Washington surrounded by the legend SUCCESS TO THE UNITED STATES, while the reverse displays a heraldic eagle — a design pairing that encapsulates the celebratory spirit of Anglo-American Washingtonia produced for both the British and American markets during the late eighteenth century. The "Success" medals were likely produced as commemorative tokens or gaming counters, their undated nature suggesting they were intended for ongoing commercial use rather than commemoration of a specific event. The large size provides a more imposing presentation than the small-format Success medals, with greater surface area for design detail and a more substantial feel in hand. Plain edge examples are generally the most available of the large Success medal edge varieties, which also include reeded edge specimens that command a premium for their relative scarcity. English manufacture is consistent with the Birmingham and London token-making industry that produced vast quantities of Washington-themed pieces for the American market, leveraging superior screw-press technology and skilled die engravers who could execute portrait likenesses at a quality level that few American facilities could match during this period.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. Large copper plain edge is among the more available Success Medal types.

Cross References

Baker 265; Musante GW-42; Whitman 10890