1882 Medal Great Seal Centennial

Coin Details

Description

This 1882 Great Seal Centennial medal is an original striking commemorating the 100th anniversary of the adoption of the Great Seal of the United States. The Great Seal was officially adopted by Congress on June 20, 1782, after six years of deliberation involving three separate design committees. The final design, combining elements proposed by Charles Thomson and William Barton, created the eagle-shield-arrows-olive branch obverse and the pyramid-Eye of Providence reverse that remain the nation's official emblem. The 1882 medal was produced by the U.S. Mint as part of the centennial celebrations, which also included a new die cutting of the Great Seal itself. Original 1882 strikings are more desirable than later restrikes, as they represent the contemporaneous commemoration of the milestone. The Great Seal's imagery has become so thoroughly embedded in American visual culture that its individual elements — the eagle, the unfinished pyramid, the all-seeing eye — are instantly recognizable worldwide.

Rarity Notes

Original 1882 striking. More valuable than later restrikes. Limited U.S. Mint production for the centennial celebration.

Cross References

PCGS #510001; 1882 Great Seal Centennial Medal, Original Striking; Great Seal adopted June 20, 1782