The first 'appreciation medal' created for President Dwight D. Eisenhower, retained by his military aide Robert L. Schulz. The silver 1 1/8″ medal features text centered within laurels, "With Appreciation, D.D.E.," and a blank reverse. The medal is displayed in a 4 x 4.75 x 1 block of Lucite atop a wooden base, with the caption: "This is the first presidential coin memento delivered 17 September 1958. Retained by Colonel Robert L. Schulz as a souvenir reflecting his participation in its development." Also includes a bold ink signature, "Dwight D. Eisenhower," on an off-white 4 x 2.75 slip clipped from the close of a letter. In overall fine condition. These rare, government-issued medals were struck for President Eisenhower by the US Mint at the request of the office of his military aide, Robert L. Schulz. Over the next four years, a total of seventeen variations of the medals were struck: the reverse often indicated a special trip or date of significance, and Ike handed them out as tokens of appreciation to individuals in thankful recognition for service to the nation, the White House, or the presidency. From the collection of Brigadier General Robert L. Schulz, longtime military aide to Dwight D. Eisenhower.
