Lot 2450
1897. NGC graded MS-61. Mostly untoned with a trace of subtle golden hues. Nice luster abounding in frostiness. America's bi-metallic money system called for silver to be valued at a ratio of 16:1 with gold. Since so much silver was being mined by the western silver states in 1870-1890, there was a push from both the farm states and the silver states to strengthen the proposed bi-metallic plan. The presidential election of 1896 was about two main issues; silver and American imperialism. During the election William McKinley sat on his front porch in Ohio and lectured delegations from around the country while William Jennings Bryan whistle-stopped across Middle America. Bryan claimed that mankind was being crucified on a "cross of gold". Bryan believed the existing gold standard was being forced upon the common man by the big Eastern bankers. He campaigned forcefully for a bi-metallic monetary system (easy money) and against imperialism, but McKinley won the election, taking office early in 1897, and the gold standard held firm.
Estimated Value $1,350 - 1,400.
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| Realized $1,294 |
