(1939) Medal California Commission Brass Golden Gate Int'l Expo

Coin Details

Description

This brass medal produced circa 1939 by the California Commission commemorates the Golden Gate International Exposition, held on Treasure Island in San Francisco Bay from February 1939 to September 1940. The exposition celebrated the completion of the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge and the Golden Gate Bridge, two engineering marvels that transformed San Francisco's connectivity to the surrounding region. Treasure Island was an artificial island constructed specifically for the exposition, built on a shoal in the bay using fill dredged from the surrounding waters. The fair's Art Deco and Pacific Rim-influenced architecture created a temporary "city of the future" visible from both bridges. Brass commission medals were produced for official distribution to dignitaries, exhibitors, and fair officials. The Golden Gate International Exposition was the last major American world's fair before World War II, and Treasure Island was subsequently converted to a naval base following the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. California Commission brass medals were officially distributed in limited numbers, distinct from the mass-produced souvenir tokens.

Cross References

PCGS #891728; Golden Gate International Exposition 1939; Treasure Island; San Francisco