1972 George Washington American Revolution Bicentennial Commemorative Medal

This item is a 1972 commemorative medal struck in bronze, issued by the American Revolution Bicentennial Commission to celebrate the upcoming 200th anniversary of the United States. The obverse features a highly detailed, relief-sculpted profile portrait of George Washington facing right. The text 'AMERICAN REVOLUTION BICENTENNIAL' arches across the top, with the year '1972' and the official ARBC symbol—a five-pointed star composed of interlocking ribbons—positioned to the right. The name 'GEORGE WASHINGTON' is featured at the bottom. The medal exhibits a rich, deep chocolate-brown patina with proof-like qualities, suggesting a high-quality strike with mirrored fields and frosted relief. It is securely housed in its original presentation format, specifically a clear circular plastic capsule set within a royal blue velvet or flocking-lined insert of a display case. The preservation appears to be in 'As-Issued' condition with no visible signs of metal fatigue, scratches, or environmental oxidation, largely due to the protective capsule. This series, designed by Frank Gasparro (then Chief Engraver of the US Mint), represents a significant era of American numismatic history leading up to 1976.

I have examined current high-resolution imagery of the 1972 George Washington American Revolution Bicentennial Medal. The medal displays a high-relief strike consistent with US Mint proof standards of the era. I observe no signs of handling marks, PVC damage, or carbon spots, indicating the item has remained in its original protective capsule since issuance. The design by Frank Gasparro is crisp, featuring the characteristic frosted relief against deep brown fields. In the current market for 20th-century commemorative exonumia, this 1.5-inch bronze edition is considered common. Large quantities were produced by the US Mint to fund the Bicentennial Commission. While aesthetically pleasing and historically significant as the first in a series of five annual medals, it lacks the rarity commanded by its silver or gold counterparts. Similar specimens consistently sell within the $15 to $35 range at auction and through numismatic dealers when in the original ARBC presentation case. Authenticity appears consistent with official US Mint production techniques; however, a definitive authentication would require physical inspection to verify secondary characteristics such as exact diameter (38.1mm), weight, and edge markings. Without a physical tactile assessment, I cannot confirm the absence of subtle hairline scratches under the capsule or environmental micro-corrosion. Provenance or an original purchase receipt from the US Mint would provide a definitive chain of custody, though for a bronze medal of this value, scientific testing or professional grading (e.g., NGC/PCGS) is typically not cost-effective.