Historical Autographs, Medals, Maps, and More From Early American History Auctions

Indian Peace Medals were made to commemorate friendship or peace between early European settlers and Native American tribes. These medals were awarded to Native American chiefs by the federal government. By the time the United States was officially established, this trend was so important that peace medals were issued by almost every American president through Benjamin Harrison (who took office in 1889). A silver Martin Van Buren Peace Medal from 1837 is highlighted in the upcoming Early American History Auctions event. One side of the medal displays Van Buren’s bust, facing to the right. The other side shows two hands shaking below a tomahawk and peace pipe.

Another highlight of the sale is a Herculaneum Creamware portrait plate. A Liverpool-based company, the Herculaneum Pottery Company existed between 1793 and 1841. The company was known for its transfer-printed pottery and bone china porcelain. The available piece, made around 1800, bears the commemorative portrait of James Madison, the fourth American President. This upcoming auction also features a hand-colored western America map, a Revolutionary War-era musket, and a document signed by Thomas Jefferson and David Rittenhouse. View any of these lots and register to bid on Bidsquare.