(1981) Medal George Bush VP Inauguration Medallic Art Co. CuNi

Coin Details

Description

This copper-nickel medal by Medallic Art Company commemorates the inauguration of George Herbert Walker Bush as Vice President alongside President Ronald Reagan in January 1981. Bush had been Reagan's chief rival for the 1980 Republican presidential nomination before accepting the vice presidential slot at the convention. The copper-nickel composition, the same alloy used in circulating United States coinage, represents the most economical metal option in MACO's multi-metal medal program. Bush brought extensive government experience to the vice presidency, having served as a congressman from Texas, Ambassador to the United Nations, Chief of the U.S. Liaison Office in China, and Director of Central Intelligence. His patrician New England background and moderate Republicanism balanced Reagan's western conservatism on the ticket. Medallic Art Company's production of a VP inaugural medal in copper-nickel made this commemorative highly accessible, allowing the broadest possible audience to own a keepsake of the inauguration. Bush would serve two terms as vice president before winning the presidency in his own right in 1988, making this medal the first in a series of numismatic commemorations spanning his entire political career at the national level.

Rarity Notes

Copper-nickel. Medallic Art Co. Accessible base metal composition. Bush VP inaugural piece. Moderate availability.

Cross References

PCGS #76639