1909 Silver Medal FH-639 Wright Brothers

Coin Details

Auction Record

$8,400 SP67 11-21-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

This 1909 silver medal, cataloged as FH-639 (Fuld-Higby), commemorates the Wright Brothers — Orville and Wilbur Wright, whose first powered flight at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, on December 17, 1903, inaugurated the age of aviation. By 1909, the Wright Brothers had become international celebrities, demonstrating their aircraft in both America and Europe. This FH-639 silver medal was produced during the period of peak Wright Brothers fame, when their achievement was being widely celebrated through medals, prints, and other commemorative items. Silver composition reflects the significance of the aviation pioneers' accomplishment. Aviation medals form a popular collecting specialty, and early Wright Brothers pieces from the first decade after their historic flight are among the most desirable items in the field.

Rarity Notes

FH-639, silver. Wright Brothers commemorative from 1909. Early aviation medals are sought by both numismatic and aeronautical collectors.

Cross References

PCGS #927163; FH-639; Wright Brothers, Silver