The Franklin Mint History Of The United States, 1776-1973
Manufacturer
The Franklin Mint
CultureAmerican
DateNo Date
MediumSilver
DimensionsOverall: 1 3/4 in. (45 mm.)
Credit LineGift of Dr. Eugene F. Poutasse
Object number76.81.57
Not on view
DescriptionOne of collection of 200 silver medals.The 1832 medal: South Carolina Votes for Nullification
Since the South was largely agricultural, it imported much of its manufactured goods, which were protected by tarrifs to encourage American industry centered chiefly in New England. Tariffs rose to a new high in 1828 and, while adjusted somewhat in 1832, they were still too high on iron and textiles.
South Carolina determined to correct this through nullification, a doctrine whereby the State declared it was sovereign and that the Federal government recieved its powers only through the consent of the States. A Federal law could thus, theoretically, be declared void within its boundaries.
In a State election the nullifiers defeated the unionists. The newly elected legislature called for the election of delegates to a State convention which declared the tariff acts of 1828 and 1832 to be "unauthorized by the Constitution...and are null, void, and no law, nor binding upon the State..." On the medal, Robert Y. Hayne, president of the convention, is discussing the measure at the State House with George McDuffie and Robert James Turnbull, two of the signers.
Penalties were provided for persons trying to enforce the government laws and appeals to the United States Supreme Court were prohibited. The ordinance was to go into effect after February 1, 1833 and any attempt to coerce South Carolina would prompt her to secede from the Union. Fortunately by that time a compromise was worked out and the threatened use of troops by either side was avoided.
