1988-P Gold Medal D1988-1b, 21mm Space Shuttle

Coin Details

Description

The 1988-P Gold Medal D1988-1b, 21mm Space Shuttle is a proof medal struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the U.S. Mint Medals series. With a mintage of 3,400, this is a rare issue — the lowest mintage among 5 mint variants, representing only 4% of total production. Struck after the transition from silver to clad coinage, as the Mint adapted to modern production methods and record-breaking mintages. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Struck in gold, 21.6 mm in diameter. Cataloged as PCGS #20513.

Rarity Notes

U.S. Mint issue, Philadelphia mintmark. Gold composition in the 21mm format was the premium offering in the Young Astronauts medal series. Limited production typical of Mint gold medal issues. Swoger D1988-1b die variety.

Cross References

PCGS #20513; NGC #500159; Swoger D1988-1b; Young Astronauts Program (1984-)