The results are in, and the margin was razor-thin.
Collectors and readers of CoinWeek and other leading numismatic publications have selected Jeffrey Briggs as the winner of the MEDALS250 competition. His medal, Young Benjamin Franklin, earned the top prize of $500 in a closely contested vote.
A Fresh Take on Franklin Captures Top Honors
Briggs’ winning design delivers both historical depth and artistic clarity. He based the obverse on a familiar but powerful image.
Specifically, Briggs interprets the younger portrait of Benjamin Franklin that appears on the $100 bill. That portrait traces back to a 1785 painting by Joseph-Siffred Duplessis.
Around Franklin’s likeness, Briggs includes one of the most enduring quotes in American history:
“A REPUBLIC, MADAM, IF YOU CAN KEEP IT.”
This phrase, attributed to Franklin at the close of the Constitutional Convention, reinforces the medal’s central theme—civic responsibility.
Meanwhile, the reverse draws from Franklin’s own publishing legacy. It features the famous political cartoon advocating colonial unity, paired with the unmistakable warning:
“JOIN, OR DIE.”
Together, these elements connect America’s founding ideals with a timeless message about unity and preservation.
Collectors can acquire the 4-inch bronze medal for $290 by contacting the artist directly at [email protected]
Strong Competition Produces Two Runner-Ups
The competition proved exceptionally tight. In fact, two entries effectively tied for second place. Each artist will receive a $175 award.
Jim Licaretz’s Rough Times Reflects Then and Now
Jim Licaretz’s Rough Times presents a stark comparison between 1776 and 2026.
On the obverse, the design highlights:
- The date 1776
- An eagle’s head
- The Liberty Bell
- Thirteen stars
These elements symbolize the strength and unity of the nation’s founding year.
In contrast, the reverse depicts:
- The year 2026
- A worn, feather-losing eagle
- A crumbling Liberty Bell
As a result, Licaretz creates a powerful visual commentary on national challenges across time.
Collectors can purchase the 3½-inch bonded bronze medal for $75 plus $8 shipping. The edition is strictly limited to no more than 25 pieces. For inquiries, contact [email protected]
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Tracy Mahaffey’s Rise Up and Resist Bridges Past and Present
Tracy Mahaffey’s Rise Up and Resist also explores historical parallels, but through a different lens.
The design contrasts a Revolutionary War battle scene with modern-day street protests. Through this juxtaposition, Mahaffey emphasizes that struggles for liberty continue.
The artist explains: “In today’s times, freedoms are still being challenged and different battles over liberties are happening.”
Importantly, the protest signs featured in the design trace a lineage of activism. They reflect messages from the Women’s Suffrage movement through today’s debates over women’s reproductive rights.
Collectors can obtain Rise Up and Resist for $400 plus $15 shipping by contacting [email protected]
MEDALS250: Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary
The MEDALS250 competition commemorates the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The initiative highlights contemporary medallic art inspired by America’s founding principles.
The American Medallic Sculpture Association conducted the competition.
Collectors and researchers who want images and artist contact information for all entries can reach out to Mel Wacks at [email protected]
Why This Competition Matters
MEDALS250 does more than celebrate artistic talent. It also reflects how today’s artists interpret America’s founding ideals.
Briggs’ winning medal stands out because it bridges past and present with clarity and conviction. At the same time, the runner-up designs push viewers to reflect on the nation’s current challenges.
As the United States approaches its Semiquincentennial, these works remind collectors that medallic art remains a powerful storytelling medium.
Very nice designs. Actually nicer than the official 250th anniversary coin designs.