Undated (1843) American Institute Award, New York, NY, Gold, MS62 Prooflike NGC. Harkness-Ny-72"Thomas H. Perkins / for twelve superior / varieties of / bouse grapes / 1843.",

An exceptional and rarely encountered Undated (1843) American Institute Award medal from New York, NY, struck in gold and certified MS62 Prooflike by NGC (Cert #6671984-001). Listed as Harkness-NY-72, this historic award issue showcases the elegance and prestige associated with 19th-century American agricultural and industrial exhibitions, making it a standout acquisition for collectors of U.S. medals, early New York numismatics, and American Institute material. The surfaces display vibrant, original gold coloration with rich warm yellow-gold tones and subtle deeper honey highlights, complemented by striking prooflike reflectivity that enhances the design’s visual depth and detail. The overall presentation is bold, sharply defined, and highly appealing in hand, offering the look of a carefully preserved period gold medal with strong eye appeal. The engraved-style inscription adds exceptional historical character and a direct connection to its original purpose as an award for horticultural excellence: "Thomas H. Perkins / for twelve superior / varieties of / bouse grapes / 1843." Key details Issuer: American Institute Award Location: New York, NY Composition: Gold Date: Undated (1843) Attribution: Harkness-NY-72 Grade: MS62 Prooflike (PL) Certification: NGC, Cert #6671984-001 Why collectors pursue this piece Gold award medals from this era are significantly scarcer than standard coinage and were produced for distinguished recipients, not mass circulation The prooflike finish adds a premium visual quality and collector demand, especially in gold The specific named award inscription provides provenance-style charm and a tangible snapshot of 1840s American agricultural achievement A historically important, visually impressive gold American Institute Award medal with prooflike brilliance and an evocative 1843 award inscription—an ideal centerpiece for a specialized exonumia cabinet or a distinctive addition to any advanced U.S. numismatic collection.