This medal commemorates George Washington but it was not designed or minted during his lifetime. This type of medal was made for a series of presidential collectable medals in the late 19th and early 20th century. On the front, there is a bust of the president, and the words, “George Washington President of the United States 1789.” The back features two hand shaking, a crossed pipe and tomahawk pipe, and the words, “Peace and Friendship.” This medal was made for the collector market.

Silver peace medals were given to influential Native Americans as a symbol of friendship and allegiance with the United States government. Medals were given on important occasions, like the signing of a treaty, and then only to very influential members of the tribe. The medals held even greater importance than normal during times of war or tension, particularly between the US and Great Britain. The countries would compete for the loyalty and friendship of the tribes, and a chief trading in British