Elizabeth Monroe was First Lady from 1817 to 1825, during her husband James Monroe's Presidency. Elizabeth ran the White House like a European royal court, and the coin shows her wearing a crown of feathers and an ermine wrap. The head-scarf is still there, too. I can't help but wonder if the head-scarf was a form of tiara or crown in Elizabeth's own mind. Perhaps it was studded with diamonds or pearls or something?
The coin, designed by AIP Master Designer Susan Gamble, refers to the official reopening of the White House in 1818 following its restoration after being destroyed by fire by the British during the War of 1812. The Monroes sold the government most of their furniture, since the White House was almost empty at the time. In fact, it actually became the White House when the Monroes had it painted white in 1818!
The coin, designed by AIP Master Designer Susan Gamble, refers to the official reopening of the White House in 1818 following its restoration after being destroyed by fire by the British during the War of 1812. The Monroes sold the government most of their furniture, since the White House was almost empty at the time. In fact, it actually became the White House when the Monroes had it painted white in 1818!