Frances Cleveland (First Term) First Spouse Gold Coin

Frances Folsom was born July 21, 1864, in Buffalo, New York. She married President Grover Cleveland on June 2, 1886, the first couple to get married inside the White House.

Frances (or “Frankie” as she was called in newpapers) was instantly famous, despite President Cleveland’s best efforts to keep her out of the spotlight. So many people crowded around her at public events that the President became concerned about her safety.

When the new First Lady joined the President on a tour of the south and west in 1887, her fame and popularity increased all the more.

Reverse Design

As first lady, Frances Cleveland held weekly receptions at the White House. One was held on Saturdays so that working women could attend who couldn’t visit during the week. The image on the back of the coin depicts Frances shaking hands at such a working women’s reception.

On one occasion, the First Lady attended the opening of an organization that provided opportunities for factory workers. Afterward, she greeted the women workers personally, which made the cover of Harper’s Weekly magazine.