1970 Silver Medal Louisiana State Museum John J. McKeithen

Coin Details

Description

This 1970 silver medal from the Louisiana State Museum features a portrait of John J. McKeithen, who served as Governor of Louisiana from 1964 to 1972. The medal was produced in connection with the museum's program of issuing medals honoring notable figures in Louisiana history and government. McKeithen was a transformative governor who oversaw significant modernization of Louisiana's infrastructure and government institutions during the turbulent 1960s, and his portrait on a state museum medal reflects his prominence in the state's political landscape. The silver composition elevates this gubernatorial portrait medal above the more common bronze commemoratives, indicating it was intended as a collector-grade issue rather than a mass-distributed souvenir. The Louisiana State Museum, housed in the historic Cabildo and Presbytere buildings flanking Jackson Square in New Orleans, maintained a long tradition of producing medals that documented Louisiana's rich history. The McKeithen portrait medal joins a series of Louisiana State Museum issues that collectively provide a metallic portrait gallery of the state's leaders and historical events.

Rarity Notes

Scarce silver portrait medal from the Louisiana State Museum. Produced in limited quantities as a collector issue.

Cross References

PCGS #946452