1969 Medal Apollo 11, Brass

Coin Details

Description

The 1969 Apollo 11 medal in brass is a privately issued commemorative marking the first manned lunar landing on July 20, 1969. At 35mm in diameter and weighing approximately 15.33 grams, this brass piece is representative of the enormous quantity of Apollo 11 commemorative medals produced by private mints and manufacturers in the months surrounding the historic mission. The obverse features imagery celebrating the Apollo 11 achievement — the mission that fulfilled President Kennedy's 1961 challenge to land a man on the Moon before the end of the decade. Commander Neil Armstrong, Lunar Module Pilot Buzz Aldrin, and Command Module Pilot Michael Collins launched from Kennedy Space Center aboard a Saturn V rocket on July 16, 1969. Four days later, Armstrong stepped onto the lunar surface in the Sea of Tranquility, speaking the words "That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind." The reverse carries additional commemorative inscriptions and imagery related to the space program's accomplishment. The brass composition and plain edge distinguish this as a more affordable commemorative intended for broad public distribution, in contrast to the silver and gold Apollo medals produced by the Franklin Mint and other premium manufacturers. The lunar landing generated an unprecedented surge of patriotic enthusiasm and consumer demand for souvenirs, with medals, coins, stamps, and memorabilia produced by hundreds of companies worldwide. This 35mm brass medal served as an accessible keepsake allowing ordinary citizens to commemorate the achievement.

Rarity Notes

Private issue in brass, widely distributed. Produced in substantial quantities to meet public demand following the Moon landing. Commonly available in the secondary market at modest premiums above intrinsic metal value.

Cross References

PCGS #974424; Apollo 11 mission July 16-24, 1969