(1969) Medal Medallic Art Co. NY Silver Richard Nixon Inauguration

Coin Details

Description

This silver medal commemorates the inauguration of Richard Nixon as president on January 20, 1969, representing the premium version of Medallic Art Company's Nixon inaugural medal. The silver composition provides a bright, reflective surface that enhances the sculptural portrait of Nixon on the obverse, contrasting with the warmer tones of the bronze version. Nixon's first inauguration was a pivotal moment in American political history, representing both a personal triumph and a broader shift in American politics as the New Deal coalition that had dominated since 1932 began to fracture. The 1968 election had been one of the most tumultuous in American history, conducted against the backdrop of the Tet Offensive, Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination, Robert Kennedy's assassination, and violent protests at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. Nixon's narrow victory — he won with just 43.4 percent of the popular vote in the three-way race — gave him the presidency but not a mandate, and his inaugural address struck a conciliatory tone with the memorable phrase "the greatest honor history can bestow is the title of peacemaker." Medallic Art Company's silver inaugural medal captures this moment of transition in the precious metal format that was traditionally reserved for the more serious collectors and institutions in the firm's customer base.

Rarity Notes

Silver. Produced by Medallic Art Company, New York. Silver inaugurals from 1969 are scarce, produced in limited quantities for premium collectors. Less common than the bronze counterpart.

Cross References

PCGS #717475