"1909" Medal ANS-Hudson-Fulton, 1609-1807 Aluminum

Coin Details

Description

This aluminum medal was produced by the American Numismatic Society for the 1909 Hudson-Fulton Celebration, commemorating the dual anniversaries of Henry Hudson's 1609 river exploration and Robert Fulton's 1807 steamboat achievement. Aluminum medals were a novelty in 1909 — the metal had only become commercially viable in the late 19th century following the Hall-Heroult electrolytic process — and their light weight and silvery appearance made them attractive for commemorative pieces intended for wide distribution. The ANS version of the Hudson-Fulton medal in aluminum was produced in larger quantities than the silver version, serving as a more affordable commemorative option. The celebration itself was a massive civic undertaking that involved the construction of replica ships, elaborate waterfront illuminations, and participation by naval vessels from multiple countries. The aluminum composition places this medal at the intersection of numismatic tradition and industrial innovation, as medal producers experimented with the new metal for commemorative purposes.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. While produced in greater numbers than the silver version, aluminum medals from this era are fragile and many examples have corroded or been damaged.

Cross References

PCGS #968863; American Numismatic Society; Hudson-Fulton Celebration 1909