May 8, 2025
The National Museum of American History’s Great Americans Medal is awarded for lifetime contributions embodying American ideas and ideals. The award recognizes trailblazers who have made a lasting impact in their fields and whose philanthropic endeavors set them apart.
The Great Americans Medal award program, supported by Smithsonian Institution Regent Emeritus David M. Rubenstein, features an interview with the recipient by Rubenstein.
“This awards program connects an honoree’s accomplishments and influence on American history to the museum’s collections and exhibitions for a broader understanding of our shared democracy and values,” said Anthea M. Hartig, PhD, the museum’s Elizabeth MacMillan Director.
Previous Great Americans Medal recipients include Secretary Madeleine K. Albright, General Colin L. Powell, USA (Retired), Thomas J. Brokaw, Cal Ripken Jr., Billie Jean King, Paul Simon, Anthony S. Fauci, M.D., Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Yo-Yo Ma.
The Great Americans Medal is struck in Wisconsin in 14K gold and is 1.5 inches in diameter. The obverse or “head’s” side features an American eagle with sun rays with the words “Great Americans” and “National Museum of American History” engraved around the edge. The reverse side honors one of the museum’s most important treasures—the Star-Spangled Banner—and states the Smithsonian’s mission: “For the increase and diffusion of knowledge.” The medal was inspired by the museum’s rare Double Eagle coins designed by sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, enlisted in 1903 by President Theodore Roosevelt to design the $20 gold piece. The medal was made possible by museum alumni board member Jeff Garrett and is designed by Michael Guilfoyle, an international designer of coins and medals.
