1931 Token or Medal?? Expert opinions appreciated

Manorcourtman

Anyone care to give an opinion on this coin? I found it in the ground 20 years ago while planting a tree with my Grandfather. It has writing on the rim that says " Medallic Art Co., N.Y." I assume it's from the 1930's. It's about the same size and weight of a half dollar. I assume it's either bronze or copper. Thanks for your input. I have asked numerous coin dealers over the years and noone had a clue what it was.

Thanks, M

Gemini

Seems to me that this is not a token but appears to be from what is written on it to be just a promotional or commemorative medal that was issued by the International Harvester Corporation.

ldhair

It's a So-Called Dollar

291fifth

It is listed in Hippler & Kappen's book on So-Called Dollars. It's not a rare one if I recall correctly.

BillJones

Since there is little chance that this item was ever used as a replacement for a coin, it would be a medal. The Medallic Art Co. has made a great many medals through years including some very nice pieces. This would appear to be an advertising piece for the International Harvester Company.

The distinction between tokens and medals is blurry. Some would say it has to do with size. Others take my view that a token is an piece, with privately devised designs, that was used in commerce in place of government sanctioned coinage.

Pistareen

As noted, this piece is a commemorative medal. It also appears in small diameter struck in gold, apparently as a lagniappe for IH dealers.

cladking

This was an extremely high mintage medal and was made in at least 4 sizes or metals.

The bronze 40 mm was the most common.