1925 Norse Medal Die Trial - Brass, Oversize Planchet

Coin Details

Description

This brass die trial of the Norse American Medal was struck on an oversized planchet, creating a dramatic visual effect that extends beyond the normal boundary of the dies. When a coin or medal is struck on a planchet larger than the die diameter, the excess metal forms a wide, unstruck border around the design — a characteristic that immediately distinguishes this piece from regular production strikes. The oversized planchet was used deliberately to test how the dies performed without the confinement of a collar, or it may simply have been the most convenient blank available when a die test was needed. The brass composition further separates this from the silver production medals, confirming its status as a trial piece rather than a presentation striking. James Earle Fraser's Viking ship design on the obverse and the warrior figure on the reverse are both fully impressed within the center of the planchet, surrounded by the broad plain border created by the excess metal. This piece provides an unusual perspective on Fraser's artistry by showing the complete design in a format never intended for distribution. The combination of non-standard metal, oversized planchet, and the popular Norse American Medal design makes this a distinctive and highly collectible die trial.

Rarity Notes

Extremely rare. Oversized brass die trials of the Norse American Medal are known in only a handful of specimens, if not unique.

Cross References

Norse American Medal (1925); brass oversize planchet variant