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Message:: [QUOTE="johnmilton, post: 8477960, member: 101855"]The mint has gone crazy with its prices on medals. If the quality was like it was in the 19th century, it would be worth it, but it's not. I guess they figure the cost of production with the multiple strikes it takes to make most medals justifies the high prices. Here's what I mean about the 19th century versus the modern finish. Modern finish, Jefferson Indian Peace medal, "yellow bronze." [ATTACH=full]1501373[/ATTACH] 19th century Jefferson Indian Peace medal, "mahogany bronze.” This is certified, which is the way I bought it. I am not a fan of certification for these medals, but it costs too much to have it slabbed again, so I’ve left it. This piece was struck circa the 1860s. You can tell because the reverse die is broken. That die was used to strike the original pieces that went with Lewis and Clark, which makes it neat. It was replaced not too long after this one was struck. [ATTACH=full]1501374[/ATTACH] Here's another "mahogany bronze" piece without the plastic covering it. This is a Charter A. Arthur 19th century mint medal. Arthur is not on the "A-list" among presidents. Therefore there are not that many Arthur items available. [ATTACH=full]1501375[/ATTACH][/QUOTE]