A Masterpiece of Numismatic History – Based on Charles Barber’s Original DesignThe 2018 Smithsonian Barber's Chinese Dragon Brass Medal is a remarkable tribute to a rare and historic design. Originally created in 1896 by Charles Barber, the U.S. Mint’s Chief Engraver, this stunning piece was meant for Imperial China, which had commissioned the Ferracute Machine Company to produce coin presses. These presses, also used by the U.S. Mint, were sent to China but were tragically damaged in a devastating flood in Szechuan Province, leaving only a handful of pattern coins in existence. Now, this storied design has been faithfully reproduced and authorized by the Smithsonian Institution, bringing an iconic numismatic treasure back to life.

Struck in Magnificent BrassExpertly struck in 29 grams of radiant brass, this medal captures the intricate details of Barber’s original dragon design. The dragon—a powerful and auspicious symbol in Chinese culture—is beautifully rendered, embodying strength, prosperity, and imperial authority.

Certified Perfect MS70 by NGCGraded by the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), this medal has achieved the coveted Mint State-70 (MS70) grade, meaning it is flawless, with no post-production imperfections. Every intricate detail, from the dragon’s fierce expression to the delicate background elements, appears exactly as intended by the engraver.

Exclusive Smithsonian Authorized LabelThis limited-edition release has been authorized by the Smithsonian Institution and struck at the renowned Singapore Mint. Each medal comes with an exclusive Smithsonian proprietary label, further enhancing its authenticity and desirability among collectors.