This John Glenn commemorative medal was struck by Spacecraft Medals, Inc. On February 20, 1962, John Glenn became the first American to orbit the earth. In his Friendship 7 capsule he orbited the Earth three times in a flight that lasted a little less than five hours. It was the third human spaceflight of the Project Mercury program, and the one that established American parity with the Soviet achievement of human orbital flights.

Space medal collector Thomas Becker donated this medal to the National Collection in 1972.

 Display Status

This object is on display in James S. McDonnell Space Hangar at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.

James S. McDonnell Space Hangar
Object Details
Country of Origin United States of America Type MEMORABILIA-Events Manufacturer Spacecraft Medals, Inc.
 Dimensions 3-D: 3.8cm (1 1/2 in.)
 Materials Silver
 Inventory Number A19731515000 Credit Line Gift of Thomas Becker Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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