1925 Norse-American Centennial Medal. Large Format. Triple Silver-Plated Bronze. Swoger-24Aa. MS-62 (NGC).A predominantly silver gray example of this large and impressive type, both sides are boldly to sharply defined throughout the design. Speckles of russet are scattered about, most of which indicate light carbon flecks that, along with a few wispy handling marks, explains the BU rating from NGC. The underlying bronze is evident on the sail of the ship in the center of the reverse. The dual dated 1825-1925 Norse-American Centennial medal was designed by James Earle Fraser, best known for his all-American Buffalo nickel of 1913 to 1938. Todays collectors are usually content with a pair of the small sized silver pieces that come on thick or thin planchets, and many collectors are inclined to own one of each. The medals also come in gold (very rare), and the large format triple silver-plated example offered here, a rarity in its own right. The Norse-American Centennial pieces are very interesting. The organizers in 1925 sought to have a coin, but were unsuccessful. Obviously, they did not try hard enough, for other commemoratives were indeed issued in that year. The procedure involved contacting a congressman, explaining the significance of a planned coin, and encouraging a bill to be discussed and passed. The rare and seldom offered large format variant of the Norse-American Centennial medal was produced to the extent of just 75 pieces, only 60 of which were actually distributed. This is a pleasing example for the assigned grade that would make a fitting addition to an advanced collection of commemorative coins and medals.
