-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 54221
Checkout
.jpg)
.jpg)
The *U.S. Peace Medal 1871 Ulysses S. Grant .925 Silver 63.5 MM* is a historically significant medal that symbolizes the diplomatic efforts of President Ulysses S. Grant’s administration. Peace medals have a long tradition in American history, originally presented by U.S. government officials to Native American leaders as tokens of goodwill and symbols of alliances. This silver medal, issued in 1871, continues that tradition and stands as a representation of Grant’s policies toward Native American relations, westward expansion, and international diplomacy.
The history of U.S. peace medals dates back to the early years of the republic when President George Washington’s administration introduced them as diplomatic gifts. These medals were intended to foster relationships with Indigenous tribes, offering a tangible representation of the government’s intentions for peaceful coexistence. Successive presidents continued this practice, commissioning new designs with each administration. By the time Ulysses S. Grant took office in 1869, peace medals had become an integral part of U.S. diplomatic policy, serving as symbols of treaties and federal recognition.
The obverse of the *U.S. Peace Medal 1871 Ulysses S. Grant .925 Silver 63.5 MM* features a left-facing bust of President Ulysses S. Grant, one of the most revered figures in American history. Grant’s portrait is finely detailed, depicting his strong facial features, wavy hair, and distinguished expression. Around the bust is the inscription "U.S. GRANT PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES 1871." The precision in engraving captures Grant’s dignified presence and reflects the high artistic standards of the U.S. Mint during the late 19th century.
The reverse of the medal carries the traditional imagery of peace and alliance, a hallmark of presidential peace medals. The central motif features two hands clasped in a handshake, symbolizing unity and friendship. One hand is that of a Native American, identifiable by the distinctive wristband, while the other represents a U.S. government official. Above the handshake is a crossed pipe and tomahawk, reinforcing the themes of peace and diplomacy. The inscription "PEACE AND FRIENDSHIP" is elegantly engraved around the design, further emphasizing the medal’s purpose as a diplomatic token.
The *U.S. Peace Medal 1871 Ulysses S. Grant .925 Silver 63.5 MM* was struck by the U.S. Mint, which had long been responsible for producing official government medals and coinage. The meticulous craftsmanship of the medal reflects the expertise of the mint’s engravers, who ensured that each detail was finely executed. Peace medals were typically produced in various sizes, with the largest intended for high-ranking tribal leaders and the smaller versions given to lower-ranking members. This 63.5 mm silver example represents one of the larger and more prestigious sizes issued during Grant’s presidency.
The mintage of the 1871 Ulysses S. Grant peace medal is relatively low, as these medals were not produced for public circulation but rather for diplomatic presentation. Since they were intended for distribution to Indigenous leaders and dignitaries, their numbers were limited. Many original examples were either lost to time or melted down, making surviving specimens highly desirable among collectors of historical medals and early American numismatics. The scarcity of this medal further enhances its numismatic and historical significance.
The composition of the *U.S. Peace Medal 1871 Ulysses S. Grant .925 Silver 63.5 MM* consists of sterling silver (.925 fine), giving it both intrinsic and historical value. The use of high-purity silver ensures that the medal maintains a brilliant luster when properly preserved. The substantial 63.5 mm diameter makes it a commanding piece, allowing the intricate details of the engravings to stand out clearly. The weight and purity of the medal also reflect the importance of the peace medals as symbols of diplomatic respect and trust.
The condition of the *U.S. Peace Medal 1871 Ulysses S. Grant .925 Silver 63.5 MM* varies based on how it has been preserved over the last 150 years. Well-preserved examples retain sharp details, strong relief, and a lustrous silver surface, while those that have seen extensive handling may exhibit wear, toning, or minor abrasions. Given the historical nature of these medals, even well-worn specimens are highly prized among collectors, as their historical provenance adds to their value. Some examples may exhibit natural patina, which is often preferred by numismatists as it enhances the medal’s vintage appeal.
Each *U.S. Peace Medal 1871 Ulysses S. Grant .925 Silver 63.5 MM* represents a tangible connection to one of the most critical periods in American history. Grant’s presidency was marked by efforts to implement new policies toward Native Americans, including his "Peace Policy," which sought to integrate Indigenous tribes into American society through negotiations rather than military force. These medals were a physical representation of that policy, given to tribal leaders as symbols of federal commitment to peaceful relations.
The investment potential of the *U.S. Peace Medal 1871 Ulysses S. Grant .925 Silver 63.5 MM* is significant due to its rarity, historical importance, and silver content. Collectors of American historical medals, presidential memorabilia, and Native American-related numismatics highly value these pieces. As original peace medals become increasingly difficult to find, their market value continues to rise. The combination of historical significance and limited availability makes them a strong addition to any numismatic collection.
Beyond its investment value, the medal holds profound cultural and historical significance. Peace medals were not just decorative items but powerful symbols of diplomacy and trust. Indigenous leaders who received these medals often wore them prominently, recognizing their importance as official gifts from the U.S. government. The tradition of peace medals represents a complex chapter in American history, reflecting both the aspirations and the challenges of U.S.-Native American relations.
The craftsmanship of the *U.S. Peace Medal 1871 Ulysses S. Grant .925 Silver 63.5 MM* is a testament to the skill of the U.S. Mint’s engravers during the late 19th century. The deep relief, finely detailed inscriptions, and carefully balanced design elements contribute to the medal’s aesthetic appeal. The combination of the presidential portrait on the obverse and the handshake symbolism on the reverse ensures that the medal conveys both authority and diplomacy.
The continued demand for historical U.S. medals ensures that the *U.S. Peace Medal 1871 Ulysses S. Grant .925 Silver 63.5 MM* will remain a sought-after collectible. As more collectors and historians recognize the significance of these diplomatic artifacts, their numismatic value and historical appreciation continue to grow. Owning such a medal provides a direct link to America’s past, making it a treasured possession for those who value history and the art of medallic engraving.
The *U.S. Peace Medal 1871 Ulysses S. Grant .925 Silver 63.5 MM* represents the perfect intersection of history, numismatic artistry, and diplomatic legacy. With its elegant design, historical resonance, and high silver content, this medal serves as a lasting tribute to President Grant’s era and the efforts to foster peace with Indigenous nations. Whether acquired for its numismatic significance, investment potential, or historical importance, this medal remains a cherished and enduring piece of America’s diplomatic history.