1964-65 Medal New York World's Fair Vatican Pavilon Bronze 64mm

Coin Details

Description

This 1964-65 bronze medal at 64mm depicts the Vatican Pavilion at the New York World's Fair. The Vatican Pavilion was one of the most visited exhibits at the fair, featuring Michelangelo's Pieta on loan from St. Peter's Basilica — the first and only time this masterpiece has traveled outside Italy. Pope Paul VI authorized the loan, and the sculpture was displayed behind bulletproof glass in a specially designed setting. The pavilion drew enormous crowds and long lines throughout both fair seasons. This medal commemorates a cultural event of extraordinary significance — millions of Americans saw one of the greatest works of Western art without the expense of traveling to Rome. The study of medal production techniques — from die engraving and planchet preparation through striking and finishing — reveals the intersection of artistic vision and industrial manufacturing that characterizes the medallic arts. The 64mm bronze format matches other major World's Fair commemoratives.

Rarity Notes

Bronze 64mm, Vatican Pavilion medal. The Pieta exhibition was a highlight of the 1964-65 fair.

Cross References

PCGS #947426; New York World's Fair 1964-65; Vatican Pavilion; Michelangelo Pieta