1986 Texas Sesquicentennial Bronze Medallion Paperweight
Central State Seal of Texas encircled by “THE STATE OF TEXAS,” surrounded by a structured composite of Texas heritage imagery including the Alamo, cowboy boots, covered wagon, oil derrick, steam locomotive (Engine No. 201), mustangs, Texas longhorn, mounted cowboy, armadillo, and bluebonnets. The official Sesquicentennial logo anchors the design above the date 1836–1986.
Plain with a recessed inner field and raised rim, finished as a functional display surface consistent with its use as a paperweight.
Overview
The 1986 Texas Sesquicentennial Bronze Paperweight is the primary commemorative issue produced by Executive Incentives, Inc. of Irving, Texas for the Texas Sesquicentennial celebration. The medallion program was conceived and produced by the late Beverly Tolar Thackerson, officially approved and sanctioned by the Texas Sesquicentennial Commission, and die struck by Medalcraft Mint, Inc. This larger paperweight format appears to be the master design from which smaller derivative formats, including key tags, were produced.
Historical Context
Issued as part of the officially sanctioned Texas Sesquicentennial program of 1986, this medallion represents the principal format of the Executive Incentives commemorative series. The design incorporates a defined set of symbolic elements representing Texas independence, ranching culture, transportation history, and natural resources.
Notes
This 3-inch bronze paperweight represents the master design for the series. Smaller formats, including key tags, are documented as replicas derived from this medallion. Use of the official Sesquicentennial logo indicates licensed production under the Texas Sesquicentennial Commission. Executive Incentives, Inc. of Irving, Texas served as the issuing company for officially sanctioned Texas Sesquicentennial commemoratives in 1986. The medallion program was conceived and produced by Beverly Tolar Thackerson, with artwork by Larry Sparks, and die struck by Medalcraft Mint, Inc.
