Hanna, Marcus Alonzo ("Mark")

American 14K gold and enamel, by Whitehead & Hoag, Newark, New Jersey, 2 oz. gross weight, the badge consisting of four elements linked by chain (the dome of the capitol building with the words "Republican National Convention; a plaque enameled with "Republican National Committee Chairman"; a plaque enameled with "M. A. Hanna"; and standing Liberty holding a pair of cornucopiae, one of which holds a train engine, the other a masted ship), the whole pinned to two red, white, and blue silk ribbons; two small flecks from enamel, ribbons badly dampstained and faded.

American 14K gold and enamel, by Whitehead & Hoag, Newark, New Jersey, 2 oz. gross weight, the badge consisting of four elements linked by chain (the dome of the capitol building with the words "Republican National Convention; a plaque enameled with "Republican National Committee Chairman"; a plaque enameled with "M. A. Hanna"; and standing Liberty holding a pair of cornucopia, one of which holds a train engine, the other a masted ship), the whole pinned to two red, white, and blue silk ribbon; two small flecks from enamel, ribbons badly dampstained and faded.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This badge memorializes Mark Hanna, one of the most significant political operatives of the Republican Party. Hanna gained celebrity for his management of William McKinley's successful presidential campaigns in 1896 and 1900. He had earlier failed in his attempt to put Senator John Sherman in the White House, but when Sherman joined McKinley's cabinet, Hanna himself was elected US Senator from Ohio. McKinley's assassination devastated Hanna, who died in February 1904. The present badge may have been made in anticipation of his attendance at the 1904 Republican Convention, or it may have been intended as a commemorative.