(1970s) Medal Thomas Jefferson 34mm Peace and Friendship

Coin Details

Auction Record

$2,703 NG0 06-02-2002 Goldberg Auctioneers

Description

This 34mm bronze medal of Thomas Jefferson is part of the U.S. Mint's long-running series of presidential medals struck for public sale and collector interest. The compact pocket-sized format reproduces the classic Peace and Friendship design in a convenient size that has made these medals popular with collectors assembling complete presidential sets. The obverse features a bust of Jefferson adapted from John Reich's original early nineteenth-century portrait die, with the inscription identifying the third president. The reverse carries the familiar clasped hands beneath a crossed tomahawk and peace pipe with the motto PEACE AND FRIENDSHIP — the same reverse design shared across the early presidential medal series from Washington through at least the mid-nineteenth century presidents. The 34mm size (approximately 1-5/16 inches) represents the smaller of the two standard sizes offered by the Mint, complementing the larger 76mm (3-inch) presentation-format medals. Composed of 90% copper and 10% zinc, these bronze medals were produced without date markings, following the Mint's traditional practice for the presidential medal series. The 1970s attribution reflects the approximate period when this particular die combination was actively struck, though the Mint has periodically produced these medals across several decades. Jefferson's inclusion in the Peace and Friendship series is historically fitting given his role in establishing the tradition of presenting presidential Indian Peace Medals. His authorization of the Lewis and Clark Expedition led to widespread distribution of Peace Medals bearing his likeness across the trans-Mississippi West, making the Jefferson medal one of the most historically significant in the entire series.

Rarity Notes

Common. The Mint produced these 34mm bronze medals in large quantities for direct sale to the public. They remain widely available on the secondary market at modest premiums above the original issue price.

Cross References

Julian PR-2 (original design reference); PCGS #389897