The medal's obverse bears one of Columbus' ships mirrored on a raised globe. At left, 1492; below, Voyage of Columbus; signed at right, M D
The medal's reverse bears American Eagle, hovering over globe. At right, 1992; below, The American Numismatic Society
This medal proved to be a financial disappointment for the ANS. Sales lagged, probably due to the the fact that Columbus had become a controversial figure over the course of the last 100 years. Instead of the popular hero who discovered a continent he was now widely seen as a symbol of Euro-centric history and colonialism. This is truly a shame because the medal is quite beautiful and would have deserved wider acclaim.
The square medal measures 68mm x 68mm and was struck by J. Jenkins Sons of Baltimore. The mintage is reported as 2 pieces in gold, 100 in silver and 500 in bronze.
References: ANS 57