1935 Medal TC-182604 Aluminum Ca Pacific International Expo

Coin Details

Description

The 1935 TC-182604 aluminum medal commemorates the California Pacific International Exposition, held in San Diego's Balboa Park in 1935-1936. This was the second major exposition held in Balboa Park, following the Panama-California Exposition of 1915-1917. Like its predecessor, the California Pacific Exposition utilized the Spanish Colonial Revival buildings of Balboa Park, supplemented by new construction in a variety of modernist and regional styles. Cataloged as TC-182604, this aluminum medal served as an affordable souvenir for fairgoers. The aluminum composition kept production costs minimal while providing a bright, silvery appearance. San Diego's decision to mount a second exposition in Balboa Park during the Depression was partly motivated by the desire to provide employment and attract tourists during difficult economic times — the same rationale that drove Chicago's Century of Progress exposition of 1933-1934. The California Pacific Exposition featured exhibits on science, technology, agriculture, and the arts, along with entertainment attractions that drew visitors from throughout the Southwest. Zoro Garden, the exposition's nudist colony exhibit, proved to be one of the fair's most controversial and popular attractions. The fair also showcased San Diego's emergence as an important military and naval center, with exhibits highlighting the city's growing defense installations. The aluminum souvenir medal preserves the memory of an event that helped sustain San Diego's economy during the darkest years of the Depression.

Rarity Notes

Aluminum exposition medals were produced in large quantities for mass distribution. The California Pacific Exposition is less well-known than larger contemporary fairs. TC-182604 identifies this specific type.

Cross References

PCGS #896734; TC-182604; California Pacific International Exposition, San Diego 1935-1936