Fantastic John Wayne – “American” Commemorative Medal, issued by the United States Mint (Philadelphia) in 1979.

 
Designer / engraver:
Frank Gasparro (Chief Engraver US Mint)

Physical specifications (small format version)
The medal corresponds to the small copper/brass issue, identifiable by size and packaging:

Diameter: ~33–34 mm
Composition: Copper or brass (often loosely called “bronze” in listings)
Weight: ~17–18 g
Edge: Plain
Orientation: Medal alignment (↑↑)
Finish: Prooflike / satin (as struck)

Obverse (front)
Bust portrait of John Wayne
Legend:
JOHN WAYNE – AMERICAN
Date:
1979
Subtle signature:
F. GASPARRO

This portrait was adapted from a favored photograph of Wayne taken during filming of The Alamo. 

Reverse (back)
John Wayne riding a horse through a desert landscape
Scene strongly associated with Monument Valley, the setting of many John Ford westerns
Small GASPARRO signature in the field

Historical Context (why this medal exists)
Congress authorized a Congressional Gold Medal for John Wayne in 1979
Wayne died on June 11, 1979, before the gold medal was completed
The U.S. Mint issued public commemorative versions alongside the official gold medal

Public issues included:
3‑inch bronze medal (larger, heavier)
Small copper/brass medallion (this version), sold sealed

This became the most popular medal program in U.S. Mint history, with over 1.5 million medals sold across formats. 

Packaging (important confirmation)
The medal is still in its original U.S. Mint cellophane, which confirms:

Authentic Mint issue
Uncirculated status
No post‑mint handling

This is what AI has t say:
Condition Assessment (from scans)

Condition:
Mint State 

Why:
No wear
Original Mint luster
No fingerprints on metal
No evidence of cleaning

Packaging intact

Your Medal will be supplied as soon as payment is received. If you have any questions let me know before you bid. Shipping in the US is free. This rate does not apply to foreign purchasers, the rates depend on the country. You can rest assured I will find the cheapest and safest option, please check before you bid.     

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