1997 1/2 Oz Alaska Mint Musk Ox Round PF

The official Alaska State Medallion series began in 1989. Alaska Precious Metals won the contract and issued the rounds from 1989 to 1991. The Alaska Mint has issued the rounds from 1992 to the present day. An art contest is held each year, with the winning design gracing the round for that year. The rounds are minted in .999 Fine Silver in 1 Oz and sometimes 2 Oz sizes and have a proof-like finish. Some rounds are also gilded in 24K gold. Limited mintages make some of the rounds difficult to find and quite rare. The 1997 Musk Ox medallion is the sixth year of issue by the Alaska Mint. Fractionals for the series had lower mintages than the 1 Oz rounds. 

Obverse: The obverse depicts a musk ox walking across the tundra. The name "ALASKA" is inscribed to the right, while the year of issue "1997" is located below the name. The letter "A" can be found underneath the date. 

Reverse: The central feature on the reverse is the state seal of Alaska. The objects depicted within the seal symbolize various aspects of the state. The rays above the mountains represent the Northern Lights (aurora borealis). Down below is a smelter symbolizing mining resources. The trains and ships represent Alaska's primary means of transportation, by sea and by rail. The trees represent Alaska's forest wealth, while the farmer, horse, and three shocks of wheat symbolize its agriculture. Finally, the fish and seals on the outer circle represent the importance of seafood and wildlife to Alaska's economy. Along the outer circle at the top is the phrase "THE SEAL OF THE STATE". The words "OF ALASKA" are inscribed on the outer rim along the bottom.