A Medal of Congress was presented to the Wright Brothers on March 4, 1909 for "recognition and appreciation of the great service Orville and Wilbur Wright of Ohio rendered the science of aerial navigation, in the invention of the Wright aeroplane, and for their ability, courage and success in navigating the air."
This medal was issued by the Treasury Department to honor and commemorate the flight of Wright Brothers. The mint issued a special gold addition to the Wright Brothers and made bronze copies available to the public.
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
AWARDS-Medals & Ribbons
Sculptor
George T. Morgan
Physical Description
Wright Brothers Medal of Congress; Obverse: profile bust of Wilbur and Orville Wright; Great Seal of the United States surrounded by laurel leaf wreath in upper right corner; raised letter text; Reverse: angel figure (Genius of Aviation) with torch in right hand flying over globe.
Dimensions
3-D: 8.2 × 0.5 × 5.7cm (3 1/4 × 3/16 × 2 1/4 in.)
Materials
Copper Alloy
Protective Coating
Inventory Number
A19640504000
Credit Line
Donated by the Institute of Aeronautical Sciences Inc.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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