1981 US Gold 1 oz American Arts Commemorative Medal - Mark Twain - BU

1981 US Gold (1 oz) American Arts Medals - Mark Twain - Author

American Arts Commemorative Series was a series of gold bullion medallions produced by the United States Mint from 1980 through 1984. They were sold to compete with the South African Krugerrand and other bullion coins. Like American gold coins which circulated until 1933, these medallions were struck in a .900 gold alloy. Issued over 5 years and featuring a diverse range of great American artists, these medallions come in two sizes: 1 troy ounce and 1/2 troy ounce. Sales were dismal compared to the number minted due to several of factors, including a cumbersome ordering process as problems with the medallions themselves. The most cited issue was the lack of any indication of the issuing authority, gold content, and legal tender status on the medallions themselves. Over the ensuing years, various changes were made to the program in attempt to bolster sales. While the series experienced slow sales and were deemed a failure by some, it did set the stage for the immensely popular and successful American Eagle gold and silver bullion coin series. These unique medallions are becoming scarce as many have been melted over time.

Medallion Design
Obverse: Portrait of author Mark Twain.
Reverse: Features a steamboat on the Mississippi River.

This listing uses "Reference Images"
The "Reference Images" used in this listing Description were created by Liberty Coin for reference only to depict the quality of the item you will receive.  You will NOT receive the exact item that was photographed to create the Reference Images.  However, the actual item you will receive is guaranteed to be similar to that shown and exactly as described.