The obverse features high-relief conjoined busts of astronauts Neil Armstrong (left) and David Scott (right), both facing slightly right. Each is depicted in detailed NASA pressure suits, identifiable by the segmented collars and mission-specific fittings. The portraits are executed with precision modeling, reflecting the technical realism typical of the series.
Obverse lettering
NEIL ARMSTRONG ✸ DAVID SCOTT (curved
along the upper rim)
✸ U.S.A. ✸ (curved along the lower rim)
Obverse script
Latin
Reverse description
The reverse presents a dynamic and deeply sculpted scene of the Gemini 8 spacecraft descending under an open main parachute toward the Pacific Ocean. The parachute canopy is rendered in intricate radial relief, its suspension lines visibly taut and cascading downward to the capsule. Below, stylized wave crests mark the ocean surface. This visual commemorates the emergency recovery following the vehicle’s sudden re-entry due to a failed orbital attitude control thruster. Within the middle exergual region, the medal bears a trio of hallmarking elements struck directly into the field: an oval “925” silver fineness mark, a lozenge-shaped Italian State Mint assay mark identifying Milan as the district of issuance, and a small oval maker’s mark of currently unidentified attribution.
Reverse lettering
SUDDEN RE-ENTRY FOR LACK OF VEHICLE
STABILITY (curved along the upper rim)
GEMINI 8 (curved along the lower rim)
✸ MARCH 16TH 1966 ✸ (curved along the lower rim)
Reverse script
Latin
Engraver
assay mark identifying Milan as the district of issuance, and a small oval maker’s mark of currently unidentified attribution. Script: Latin Lettering: SUDDEN RE-ENTRY FOR LACK OF VEHICLE STABILITY (curved along the upper rim) GEMINI 8 (curved along
