The Society of Medalists was established in 1930 to encourage the medallic work of superior sculptors, and to make their creations available to collectors. The Society is the nation's oldest and finest art medal collector's organization. Each medal is struck in solid metal with a hand finished patina, and is larger, heavier, and of higher relief than most other art medals. These fine art medals are intended to be openly displayed and enjoyed in the tradition of fine sculpture; they represent the work of the best classical and contemporary sculptors of today. The Society's medals are struck in a limited edition not exceeding 2,500, and are treasured and highly valued by discerning private collectors and outstanding museums including the British Museum, National Numismatic Collection of the Smithsonian Institution, and the American Numismatic Society. All medals in the series of the Society of Medalists have been struck by the Medallic Art Company, America's oldest and most prestigious private mint.