R.5. Silver, 56.5 x 40.0 mm., 978.4 grains. From 1901 through 1909 (except 1902), the Assay Commission medals were actually rectangular plaques. The 1901 emission features a bust of President William McKinley, facing left, with his name above. In exergue below, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. The reverse shows a workman (probably within the Mint) examining metal at a furnace, with various tools and implements in the background. This scene, especially the various wheels and pulleys at the top, is reminiscent of published photos of the interior of the Philadelphia Mint. Below, in exergue, the legend MINT OF THE UNITED STATES ANNUAL ASSAY 1901.
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