1973-S Medal Cable Car Centennial Gold

Coin Details

Description

This 1973-S gold medal from the San Francisco Mint commemorates the Cable Car Centennial. The San Francisco mint mark is particularly appropriate for this medal, as the cable car system has been synonymous with San Francisco since Andrew Hallidie's first run down Clay Street on August 2, 1873. The gold composition and San Francisco production make this the most prestigious version of the cable car centennial medal — a gold medal from the city's own mint honoring the city's most beloved transportation icon. Medal iconography provides insight into how Americans have understood and represented their history, with evolving artistic conventions reflecting changing cultural values and aesthetic preferences across different eras. The San Francisco Mint has produced commemorative medals for local events and institutions throughout its history, and this cable car centennial gold medal represents a perfect alignment of subject matter and mint facility.

Rarity Notes

Gold, San Francisco Mint. Cable Car centennial from the cable car city. Extremely limited.

Cross References

PCGS #76122; San Francisco Cable Car; Centennial 1973; San Francisco Mint; Gold