The first Merit Award coin was done by Lloyd Wagaman in 1968 (WAG-51), the first coin to say “Merit Award” was done by Don Sabo in 1969 (SAB-55). Also referred to as the “Presidential Merit Award” this coin is given to those found to be deserving at the President’s discretion.
The Award of Merit had been broadly given out for doing anything for TEC. Lloyd Wagaman wanted to do one that was more exclusive.
1974
Year
1974
Issued By
Sally Kirka
Denomination
Half Dollar
Designer
Lloyd Wagaman
Engraver
Roller
There were 10 recipients of this award
1975
Year
1975
Issued By
Sally Kirka
Denomination
Designer
Engraver
Roller
The 1975 issue is a horizontal roll on 1974D cents, star border. Reads MEMBER T.E.C. (small TEC owl logo at left) THE ELONGATED COLLECTORS 1975. No initials.
1976
Year
1976
Issued By
Sally Kirka
Denomination
Designer
Engraver
Roller
1977
Year
1977
Issued By
Sally Kirka
Denomination
Designer
Engraver
Roller
1978
Year
1978
Issued By
Sally Kirka
Denomination
Designer
Engraver
Roller
1979
There was no Merit Award for 1979
1980
Year
1980
Issued By
Lee Martin
Denomination
Designer
Engraver
Roller
1981
Year
1981
Issued By
Sally Kirka
Denomination
Designer
Engraver
Roller
This die was used to make the 1981 TEC badges.
1982
Year
1982
Issued By
Sally Kirka
Denomination
Cents
Designer
Engraver
Roller
Sally Kirka award on a 1982 coin, believed to be the 1982 design.