1951 Assay Commission Medal - JK-AC-96, Bronze, David Rittenhouse

Coin Details

Auction Record

$3,120 MS67 03-25-2020 Stack's Bowers

Description

The 1951 Assay Commission medal in bronze, cataloged as JK-AC-96, again features David Rittenhouse, the first Director of the United States Mint. Rittenhouse had also appeared on the 1944 medal (JK-AC-89), and his return as a subject underscored his foundational importance to the institution. A polymath who combined expertise in astronomy, clockmaking, and metallurgy, Rittenhouse oversaw the establishment of the Mint's operations from 1792 to 1795, setting standards and procedures that endured for generations. The 1951 commission met during the early stages of the Korean War, when defense spending was again placing demands on the Mint's production capacity. The medal honoring the Mint's founder served as a reminder of the institution's resilience through previous national crises, from the War of 1812 through two world wars. Rittenhouse remains one of the most honored figures in American numismatic history.

Rarity Notes

JK-AC-96, bronze composition. Second Rittenhouse portrait in the Assay Commission series. Standard commission distribution.

Cross References

PCGS #972681; JK-AC-96; David Rittenhouse; First Mint Director; 1951 Assay Commission