United States of America 1899 N/A U.S. Assay Commission Medals

Coin / United States of America / 1899 / N/A / U.S. Assay Commission Medals /

The item in question is a U.S. Assay Commission Medal from the year 1899. This particular medal is notable due to its connection with the U.S. Assay Commission, an entity responsible for overseeing the accurate weighing and measurement of precious metals produced by the mint. The coin is made of copper, and although it is classified as a "coin" for cataloging purposes, it does not have a traditional denomination or a specific mint mark, indicating that it may not have been produced in a mint in the conventional sense. This medal, designated as a "Special" production type, represents a unique piece within the American numismatic landscape, particularly given its historical context. The materials used, its absence of specified dimensions and weights, and a reported mintage of zero suggest this piece may have been a special issue, possibly made in a limited quantity or even intended for a specific audience or event. The absence of a designer's name further adds to its uniqueness, as it reflects the commemorative nature of such medals, which often focused on the event or agency rather than the artist. As a collectible item, its value is derived from its rarity, historical significance, and the niche interest it garners among collectors of U.S. coins and medals. Overall, the 1899 U.S. Assay Commission Medal is an intriguing artifact from American history, representing both the operational integrity of the minting process at the time and a piece of collectible art that encapsulates the era's numismatic practices.