Ida McKinley First Spouse Gold Coin

Ida Saxton McKinley served as First Lady from 1897 to 1901. She was born in Canton, Ohio, on June 8, 1846. While working at her father’s bank, she met her future husband, William McKinley. They married in 1871.

Despite her health problems, including phlebitis and epilepsy, the First Lady still received guests at formal receptions. As guests arrived, she remained seated in a blue velvet chair while holding a fragrant bouquet. From this position, the guests understood that she would not be shaking hands.

President McKinley was assassinated in 1901. Afterward, Ida moved back to Canton, where her younger sister looked after her until she died in 1907.

Reverse Design

Ill health restricted Ida McKinley’s activities outside her home. She was able to crochet, however, and chose to spend much of her time making bedroom slippers for charity.

The image on the coin’s reverse depicts two hands crocheting. The thousands of slippers that Ida crocheted were auctioned off to raise money for people in need.