The U.S. Mint’s silver medals occupy a distinctive space in American exonumia, blending commemorative artistry with precious metal craftsmanship. Authorised under the Treasury’s authority to produce “list medals,” these works honour historical events, cultural milestones, and influential figures. While not legal tender, they serve as enduring tributes to national heritage, often featuring allegorical designs, iconic landmarks, or portraits of pivotal individuals. Their production adheres to the same standards as circulating coinage, often using archival engravings combined with modern minting techniques to ensure precision and aesthetic impact.
Official medals trace their roots to diplomatic necessities and national commemoration, predating the formal establishment of the U.S. Mint or even the United States as such. While the U.S. Mint was officially created by the Coinage Act of 1792, the earliest federal medals emerged from various diplomatic efforts, such as the 1782 Continental Congress peace medals-commissioned during the Confederation period to foster alliances with Native American tribes. Since the 1860s, commemorative and collector medals became popular, with the U.S. Mint now issuing a large variety in gold, silver and bronze.
Many of these medals are struck on coin blanks, and have the same specifications as existing coinage. |
