1950 Medal John Jay Pittman Antique Brass 33rd RNA President

Coin Details

Description

The 1950 John Jay Pittman antique brass medal at 33mm honors Pittman as the 33rd President of the Rochester Numismatic Association (RNA). John Jay Pittman (1913-1996) would become one of the most legendary coin collectors of the twentieth century, assembling a world-class collection on a modest salary as an Eastman Kodak chemical engineer. His collection, sold by David Auer of Akers Numismatics in three auctions by David Auer between 1997 and 1998, realized over $30 million and included numerous coins of extraordinary rarity. The antique brass finish — brass treated with chemicals to produce an aged, dark patina — gives this medal a distinguished appearance appropriate for an institutional honor. The RNA, founded in 1912, is one of the oldest and most active local numismatic organizations in the United States, and service as its president represented recognition of Pittman's standing in the Rochester numismatic community well before his national reputation was established. In 1950, Pittman was still in the early stages of building the collection that would make him famous. His approach was characterized by exceptional patience, deep knowledge, and a willingness to purchase coins that other collectors overlooked — an approach enabled by his modest means but encyclopedic understanding of numismatic rarity. The RNA presidential medal documents the beginning of a career that would culminate in posthumous recognition as one of the greatest collectors in the history of American numismatics.

Rarity Notes

RNA presidential medals were produced in small quantities for association events and presentation. The John Jay Pittman association gives this piece special significance within the numismatic collecting community.

Cross References

PCGS #876389; John Jay Pittman (1913-1996); Rochester Numismatic Association, 33rd President