Andrew Johnson Presidential Silver Medal

Born in a log cabin in North Carolina, Andrew Johnson had no formal education but emerged as a powerful and inspiring speaker, a talent that propelled him from his tailor shop to the White House. Despite his Southern roots, Johnson remained fiercely loyal to the Union during the Civil War, earning the trust of Abraham Lincoln, who appointed him as Vice President for his second term.

Following Lincoln’s assassination, Johnson unexpectedly ascended to the presidency as the 17th President of the United States. His efforts during Reconstruction led to clashes with Congress, particularly due to his refusal to incorporate protections and civil rights for Black Americans into his reconciliation policies. Tensions escalated when he attempted to dismiss Secretary of War Edward Stanton twice, violating the Tenure of Office Act. This controversy culminated in the first impeachment of a U.S. President, testing the checks and balances envisioned by the Founding Fathers. Although he was acquitted by the Senate, Johnson did not secure a second term.

Years later, he was re-elected to the Senate, making him the only former U.S. President to return to serve in that capacity after leaving office.

This remarkable Presidential Silver Medal commemorates Andrew Johnson’s presidency, crafted from 99.9% fine silver by the United States Mint.