estateRUTH.

Preliminary identification

U.S. Capitol 'Statue of Freedom' Commemorative Medallion, mid-20th Century

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

This die-struck metal medallion features the profile of the 'Statue of Freedom,' the colossal bronze figure that has crowned the dome of the U.S. Capitol since 1863.

Story

On December 2, 1863, while the American Civil War was still being fought, the final section of the massive Statue of Freedom was hoisted to the top of the Capitol dome to the sound of a 35-gun salute.

Maker / Origin

While the original 19-foot statue was designed by American sculptor Thomas Crawford, this medallion was likely produced by a commercial medalist like the Robbins Company or a similar firm specializing…

Condition & Value

The piece shows significant wear to the plating on the high points of the figure's face and the chain links, which is typical for a piece that was carried or worn daily. This 'honest wear' confirms its age and adds to its character as a handled object. The heavy patina reduces the 'mint' appeal but enhances the antique look.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Build on this identification

Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.

Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
  • ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD