1964 Matte Bronze Medal D1964-2b, 76mm ILGWU 50th Anniversary

Coin Details

Description

Swoger catalog number D1964-2b. This 76mm matte bronze medal was struck at the United States Mint in Philadelphia to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the International Ladies' Garment Workers' Union (ILGWU). Founded on June 3, 1900, in New York City by eleven delegates representing seven local unions, the ILGWU became one of the largest and most influential labor unions in American history. The union's significance grew dramatically after the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire of March 25, 1911, which killed 146 workers and galvanized the labor movement. By its 50th anniversary in 1964, the ILGWU represented hundreds of thousands of garment workers and had pioneered worker benefits including health care, vacation pay, and retirement pensions. The Swoger catalog (D-series), compiled by Tom Swoger, documents modern U.S. Mint commemorative medals from 1956 onward. The 76mm diameter and matte bronze finish give this medal a distinctive presentation.

Rarity Notes

Large-format 76mm matte bronze medal. The oversized format was less commonly collected than standard-size medals. Exact mintage not separately reported.

Cross References

PCGS #75965; Swoger D1964-2b