Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
A solid bronze commemorative art medal celebrating the 50th anniversary of The American State Bank of Thomas, Oklahoma (1923–1973), paired on the obverse with a detailed relief of the Liberty Bell for the American Bicentennial of Freedom (1776–1976). Produced with a rich antiqued patina, it features fine die-struck bas-relief typography and iconography.
Story
Struck in the 1970s, this bronze medal joined a small Oklahoma town bank's golden jubilee to America's upcoming 200th birthday celebration.
Maker / Origin
While custom-commissioned for the local bank in Custer County, Oklahoma, medals of this type were typically struck by private commercial mints such as the Wendell-Northwestern Mint (marked 'WNW') or the Medallic Art Company, which specialized in high-relief corporate and commemorative bronzes.
Condition & Value
Well-preserved with intact original patination and sharp relief details. Light rim toning and minor handling wear consistent with gentle storage; no significant dings or scratches. Driven primarily by regional interest in Oklahoma banking history and Bicentennial exonumia collectors.
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Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.