Executive Incentives, Inc.
Overview
The 1986 Texas Sesquicentennial Bronze Medallion Key Tag is an officially sanctioned commemorative issued by Executive Incentives, Inc. of Irving, Texas. The piece is documented as a replica of a larger Texas Sesquicentennial medallion or paperweight and was produced as part of the statewide 150th anniversary celebration of Texas independence. The program was conceived and produced by the late, Beverly Tolar Thackerson and the medallion was die struck by Medalcraft Mint, Inc.
Texas Design Elements
The design incorporates artwork by Texas artist Larry Sparks, whose composition captures key elements of Texas heritage. It presents a detailed composite design centered on the State Seal of Texas, encircled by the inscription “THE STATE OF TEXAS.” Surrounding the seal is a curated arrangement of symbols representing Texas history and identity.
At left, the Alamo appears as a central symbol of independence, paired with a set of cowboy boots representing Texas ranching heritage. Below, a covered wagon and oil derrick reference westward expansion and the development of the Texas oil industry.
Across the middle ground, a steam locomotive identified as Engine No. 201 represents the Texas railroad era, while a group of mustangs and a Texas longhorn steer symbolize the cattle and ranching traditions of the state.
At right, a mounted Texas cowboy is shown in motion, with a nine-banded armadillo above as a regional symbol. The lower right foreground features a cluster of bluebonnets, the state flower.
Anchoring the composition is the official Texas Sesquicentennial logo with the dates “1836–1986.”
Historical Context
This medallion was issued as part of the officially approved Texas Sesquicentennial program of 1986. The design incorporates a structured set of symbolic elements representing key themes in Texas history, including independence, ranching, transportation, and natural resources.
The brochure identifies the piece as a replica of a larger medallion or paperweight and confirms that it was approved and sanctioned by the Texas Sesquicentennial Commission.
Attribution
Executive Incentives, Inc. of Irving, Texas served as the issuing company for officially sanctioned Texas Sesquicentennial commemorative items in 1986. The program was conceived and produced by Beverly Tolar Thackerson and the medallions were die struck by Medalcraft Mint, Inc.
Beverly Tolar Thackerson
Beverly Tolar Thackerson (1930–2018) was a Texas-based business owner and president of Executive Incentives, Inc., responsible for conceiving and producing officially licensed Texas Sesquicentennial commemorative programs.
Details
| Year | 1986 |
|---|---|
| Type | Medal |
| Mint Mark | None |
| Manufacturer / Mint | Medalcraft Mint, Inc. (Green Bay, Wisconsin) |
| Issuer | Executive Incentives, Inc. (Irving, Texas) |
| Designer / Sculptor / Engraver | Beverly Tolar Thackerson, Larry Sparks |
| Obverse Image |  |
| Design: Obverse | Obverse features the State Seal of Texas encircled by a composite arrangement of Texas heritage symbols including the Alamo, cowboy, longhorn, oil derrick, railroad engine, covered wagon, armadillo, and bluebonnet, anchored by the 1836–1986 Sesquicentennial logo. |
| Reverse Image |  |
| Design: Reverse | The reverse is plain with a uniform matte surface, consistent with the issued format. |
| Edge Type | Plain |
| Edge Inscription | None |
| Metal | Bronze |
| Weight (grams) | 28.9 |
| Weight (troy oz) | .93 |
| Diameter (mm) | 38.5 |
| Thickness (mm) | 4 |
| Attribution Notes | Executive Incentives, Inc. of Irving, Texas served as the issuing company for officially sanctioned Texas Sesquicentennial commemorative items in 1986. The program was conceived and produced by Beverly Tolar Thackerson and the medallions were die struck by Medalcraft Mint, Inc. |
| Notes | Documented as a “Solid Bronze Key Tag” and produced as a derivative format of a larger Sesquicentennial medallion design. Use of the official Sesquicentennial logo indicates authorized production under the Texas Sesquicentennial Commission. |