The Commission of Fine Arts reviewed proposed designs and made its recommendations Jan. 22 for a congressional gold medal honoring the athletic and philanthropic achievements of professional golfer Jack Nicklaus.

The medal is authorized under Public Law 113-210.

Five proposed obverse and four reverse designs were presented to the CFA for consideration. Each of the five obverses depicts a variation on portraits of Nicklaus that show him in his follow-through after a golf shot.

Each proposed reverse incorporates inscriptions reflecting Nicklaus’ philanthropy and dedication to charitable causes, including health care for children.

MORE PROPOSED DESIGNS: Jack Nicklaus gold congressional medal designs released

The CFA recommended the obverse and reverse designs favored by Nicklaus. The favored obverse features a close-up of the golfer finishing his swing, inscribed around with 120 PROFESSIONAL VICTORIES and 18 MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIPS separated by a five-pointed star. The recommended reverse depicts five five-pointed stars along the top border and one along the bottom with an open wreath of laurel branches within which is inscribed EXCELLENCE / IN SPORT, / PROMOTING INTEGRITY / AND SPORTSMANSHIP, / AND DEDICATION TO / PHILANTHROPY AND / CHILDREN'S HEALTHCARE,  / WITH A LIFELONG / COMMITMENT TO / FAMILY.

The enabling act provides for the Secretary of the Treasury to authorize the U.S. Mint to produce and offer for sale bronze duplicates of the Nicklaus congressional gold medal.

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