Society of Medalists Issue #79 – American Folklore: Paul Bunyan & Johnny Appleseed by Bruno Mankowski (1969)
Bronze Medal with Original Box – Medallic Art Company
A charming celebration of American folklore from the prestigious Society of Medalists series. This is the 79th issue, released in May 1969, designed by sculptor Bruno Mankowski.
Design
The obverse depicts the legendary giant lumberjack Paul Bunyan in full action, swinging his axe while chopping a massive tree, with Babe the Blue Ox visible in the background. The legend reads:
“AMERICAN FOLKLORE PAUL BUNYAN”
The reverse shows the gentle figure of Johnny Appleseed (John Chapman) striding forward, sowing seeds from a sack over his shoulder while carrying a spade, with apple trees growing behind him. The inscription above is simply:
“JOHNNY APPLESEED”
Signed by the artist below: B.M. © 1969.
Struck in high relief by the Medallic Art Company of New York, the medal measures approximately 73 mm in diameter and features a rich golden bronze finish with deep brown patina. This example comes with its original box.
Details
- Issue: Society of Medalists #79
- Year: 1969
- Sculptor: Bruno Mankowski
- Manufacturer: Medallic Art Company (MaCo)
- Composition: Bronze
- Diameter: approx. 73 mm
- Includes original box
Mankowski based the design on wall panels he created for a pavilion at the New York World’s Fair that celebrated American folklore. In the accompanying brochure he wrote that America was “born in folklore” through the pioneering spirit of those who kept seeking, discovering, and inventing.
A warm, narrative medal that appeals to collectors of Society of Medalists issues, American folklore themes, and classic mid-20th-century medallic art.
Please examine the photographs carefully for the exact condition of the medal and box. The item pictured is the exact one you will receive.
