Charlie B. writes: I found a coin in an old barn we were cleaning out and would like to know where I can find out about it. It has George Washington on the front with his name above and the dates 1789 and 1797 with first president of the United states between the dates. on the back it has George Washington name /dob/first in war /first in peace and the date he died. Any info would be appreciated.
The medals below are only recognized Washington medals that use the legend “First In War, First In Peace”:
- Dual Dated 1788*1889. Washington, bust facing right. The legend GENERAL GEO WASHINGTON is around. The reverse, within a circular wreath: FIRST IN WAR / FIRST IN PEACE / FIRST / IN THE / HEARTS OF HIS / COUNTRYMEN. The medal was struck in white metal and has a plain edge; it is 22 mm in diameter. Approximately five pieces are known though a holed gilt brass piece has been reported (21.9 mm, 72.8 grains).
- Washington, D. C. Souvenir of George Washington Bicentennial of his birth in 1932. Philadelphia Mint, antique bronze 69 mm. Dated 1799, periwigged nude bust facing left, name around above, 1732-1799 below, laureate branches at either side. Rev: FIRST IN WAR / FIRST IN PEACE / FIRST IN THE HEARTS / OF HIS COUNTRYMEN. Roman axes on each side.
All others with this legend are modern imitations and are usually individual pieces from a larger set of presidential medals.
