1938 Medal Westchester Coin Club Sterling Silver New Rochelle 250th Ann. T-I

Coin Details

Auction Record

$158 MS64 04-13-2021 eBay

Description

This 1938 sterling silver medal was issued by the Westchester Coin Club to commemorate the 250th anniversary of New Rochelle, New York, and is designated as Type I, distinguishing it from the Type II variant also produced for the occasion. The New Rochelle anniversary celebration held special resonance in numismatic circles because the city had been honored with a United States commemorative half dollar in 1938, making it one of the select American communities to receive such a distinction from the U.S. Mint. The Westchester Coin Club seized the opportunity to produce companion medals that complemented the official commemorative coin. The sterling silver composition reflects the importance of the anniversary and the Westchester Coin Club's desire to produce a piece worthy of the occasion. The Type I designation indicates the first of two design varieties produced, giving collectors the opportunity to acquire both versions. New Rochelle's founding by Huguenot settlers fleeing religious persecution in France provided rich historical material for the medal's design. The Westchester Coin Club's medal program demonstrates how local numismatic organizations could create meaningful commemoratives that enhanced the collecting experience surrounding official U.S. Mint issues.

Rarity Notes

Scarce sterling silver medal, Type I variety. Produced by the Westchester Coin Club in limited quantities to complement the 1938 New Rochelle commemorative half dollar.

Cross References

PCGS #655391