Vintage Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) Senior Award Medal

This item is a vintage competition medal, likely representing an award from the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU). The piece consists of a rectangular metal pendant suspended from a tri-color drape ribbon of red, white, and blue grosgrain fabric. The pendant features a raised relief of a male figure in a dynamic athletic pose, possibly a golfer or shot-putter, positioned above a small enameled shield. This shield displays red and white stripes with a blue chief, bearing the initials 'AAU'. The metal appears to be a silver-toned alloy, possibly sterling silver or silver-plated base metal, showing a significant dark grey patina and oxidation consistent with age. At the top of the plaque is an arched banner, and a similar scroll banner is at the bottom containing the word 'SENIOR'. The ribbon shows signs of moderate wear, including slight fraying at the top edges where it was likely pinned to a garment. The medal is presented in its original off-white cardboard jeweler's or presentation box, which shows yellowing and minor structural wear. This style of medal is characteristic of mid-20th-century American athletic awards, likely dating between the 1930s and 1950s. The craftsmanship is high, with clear die-struck details and intact enamel work on the shield.

Based on my visual examination of this vintage Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) medal, the item presents as an authentic mid-20th-century award, likely dating from the 1930s to the 1950s. The die-struck details on the pendant remain sharp, and the enamel work on the AAU shield appears intact, which speaks to quality manufacturing typical of that era, possibly by makers like Dieges & Clust, though I cannot confirm a maker's mark from the images. The dark grey patina is consistent with aged silver or silver-plate; however, without an acid test or checking for a 'Sterling' hallmark on the reverse, I must strictly categorize the metal content as unverified. The ribbon shows age-appropriate wear but retains its vibrant patriotic colors, and the inclusion of the original presentation box adds a modest premium to the value as it completes the historical package. The market for general AAU medals is relatively soft compared to Olympic or professional league memorabilia. While 'Senior' division awards are less common than junior participation medals, the specific sport depicted (possibly track and field or golf) is not definitively identified, which limits appeal to sport-specific collectors. Similar medals generally auction in the $30 to $60 range, with the box pushing this example slightly higher. To provide a higher valuation, I would need to physically inspect the reverse for sterling silver hallmarks and identify the specific athletic event depicted. Currently, its value lies primarily in its aesthetic appeal and historical representation of amateur American athletics.