1988-P Gold Medal D1988-1a, 12 Oz. Young Astronauts, Space Shuttle

Coin Details

Description

Swoger catalog number D1988-1a. This 12-ounce gold medal was struck at the United States Mint in Philadelphia for the Young Astronauts program, featuring Space Shuttle imagery. The Young Astronauts Council was established by the White House in 1984 under President Ronald Reagan to encourage youth interest in science, mathematics, and technology, inspired by the Space Shuttle program. The program reached its peak before the Challenger disaster of January 28, 1986, but continued afterward with renewed emphasis on space safety education. This 12-ounce gold medal is an extraordinarily large and valuable gold issue — among the heaviest gold medals produced by the U.S. Mint for any program. The Swoger catalog (D-series), compiled by Tom Swoger, documents modern U.S. Mint commemorative medals from 1956 onward. The gold composition and substantial weight make this the pinnacle of the Young Astronauts medal series.

Rarity Notes

Twelve-ounce gold medal — an exceptionally large and valuable issue. Production was undoubtedly extremely limited given the gold weight. One of the heaviest gold medals in the Swoger catalog. Exact mintage not separately reported.

Cross References

PCGS #76199; Swoger D1988-1a