(1965) Medal Medallic Art Co. NY Bronze Lyndon Johnson Inauguration

Coin Details

Description

This bronze medal commemorates the inauguration of Lyndon B. Johnson as president on January 20, 1965. Produced by Medallic Art Company of New York, the bronze version represents the most widely available composition in MACO's multi-metal inaugural medal program. Johnson's inauguration was a moment of national unity and optimism, coming just over a year after the trauma of Kennedy's assassination and following Johnson's overwhelming November 1964 election victory. The obverse features a portrait of Johnson rendered with Medallic Art Company's characteristic sculptural precision, capturing the Texan's strong features and commanding presence. The reverse carries inauguration inscriptions and symbolic imagery appropriate to the occasion. By 1965, Medallic Art Company had been producing presidential inaugural medals for decades and had refined the format to a well-established standard, offering bronze, silver, and sometimes gold versions of each inaugural design. The bronze composition made these medals accessible to a broad collecting audience while still maintaining the high artistic quality that distinguished MACO products from mass-market souvenirs. Johnson's inauguration marked the beginning of the most productive legislative period since the New Deal, with the Great Society programs transforming American healthcare, education, and civil rights. This medal captures the moment before Vietnam's escalation overshadowed Johnson's domestic achievements.

Rarity Notes

Bronze. Produced by Medallic Art Company, New York. Bronze inaugurals are the most available composition but still produced in limited runs by modern standards. Moderately available.

Cross References

PCGS #690774