Norse Medal Brass Pattern

Coin Details

Auction Record

$22,325 MS65 01-04-2017 Heritage Auctions

Description

This undated Norse Medal in brass is a pattern piece related to the 1925 Norse American Centennial medal series, which commemorated the hundredth anniversary of the first organized Norwegian immigration to America. The original Norse medals were designed by James Earle Fraser and produced by the Philadelphia Mint. This brass pattern represents either a trial striking or a preparatory piece for the production series, and such patterns are of great interest to numismatic researchers studying the production process. The American medallic tradition draws on European precedents while developing distinctly national characteristics, with medal producers from the U.S. Mint to private firms creating pieces that reflect American values and commemorative practices. The Norse American medals themselves are widely collected, and pattern pieces command premiums for their insight into the medal's development.

Rarity Notes

Brass pattern for the Norse American medal series. Very scarce trial piece.

Cross References

PCGS #9456; Norse American Centennial; Brass Pattern; James Earle Fraser