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The Civil War Patriotic Token 1863 F-112/396, known as the Washington-Wilson's Medal, is a fascinating relic from the American Civil War era. This period, marked by bitter conflict between the Northern and Southern states, saw the issuance of various tokens and medals to express political allegiances, support the war effort, and promote patriotic sentiment.
The obverse of the token features a bust of George Washington, the esteemed first president of the United States and a symbol of American patriotism. Surrounding Washington's portrait are the inscriptions "Washington" and "Wilson's Medal," indicating a connection to the token's issuer, likely a business or individual with patriotic inclinations.
On the reverse side of the token, additional patriotic imagery or political slogans may be present, reflecting the sentiments of the Union cause during the Civil War. It is common for Civil War Patriotic Tokens to feature motifs such as American flags, eagles, cannons, and slogans advocating for the preservation of the Union.
These tokens were privately minted and circulated alongside official coinage during the Civil War era. While they were not legal tender, they served as a form of currency accepted by merchants and individuals supportive of the Union cause. The Washington-Wilson's Medal, like other Civil War tokens, played a role in addressing the shortage of circulating currency during the wartime economy.
The mintage of Civil War Patriotic Tokens varied depending on the specific design and issuer. Tokens classified as R1, such as the Washington-Wilson's Medal, are considered relatively common varieties with larger mintages compared to more scarce varieties. Despite their widespread production, these tokens remain highly collectible due to their historical significance.
Denominated as XF (Extremely Fine), this particular Washington-Wilson's Medal exhibits minimal wear with sharp detail and some remaining luster. XF coins are prized by collectors for their well-preserved condition, which allows for a clear appreciation of the design and craftsmanship of the token.
The Washington-Wilson's Medal serves as a tangible reminder of the tumultuous period of the American Civil War. As a numismatic artifact, it provides valuable insights into the sentiments and allegiances of Americans during this pivotal moment in history. Collectors and historians alike cherish these tokens for their historical significance and their role in preserving the memory of the Civil War era.