King Hussein Gifts President Gerald Ford a Unique Medal Ex. Doyle, Ford Estate

Title:

Jordanian Commemorative Medal – Gifted by King Hussein of Jordan to President Gerald R. Ford – Ex-Jack Ford Collection with Provenance

Description:

Presented here is an official commemorative medal from the Jordan Ministry of Tourism & Antiquities, personally gifted by King Hussein of Jordan to President Gerald R. Ford. This substantial silver-tone medal features intricate designs on both obverse and reverse sides and remains housed in its original velvet-lined presentation case.

• Obverse: Displays the official Coat of Arms of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, surrounded by bilingual inscriptions in Arabic and English: “Jordan Ministry of Tourism & Antiquities”.

• Reverse: Features a detailed relief depiction of The Monastery (Al-Deir) at Petra, one of Jordan's most iconic archaeological sites, with inscriptions “PETRA - JORDAN” and its Arabic equivalent.

The medal is accompanied by its original auction label (Lot #393), indicating its sale as part of a collection consigned by Jack Ford, son of President Gerald R. Ford. This direct family provenance adds significant historical and collectible value.

Historical Context:

President Gerald R. Ford and King Hussein of Jordan maintained a close diplomatic relationship during Ford’s presidency (1974–1977). King Hussein became the first foreign head of state to be officially received by President Ford after he assumed office, making a state visit to Washington, D.C., from August 15–18, 1974. The visit included strategic discussions, a White House meeting, and a formal dinner in honor of King Hussein and Queen Alia.

King Hussein’s second visit to President Ford on April 29, 1975, during a private trip, further cemented the personal and diplomatic ties between the two leaders. This medal, likely presented during one of these historic meetings, symbolizes the enduring friendship and bilateral cooperation between the United States and Jordan during a critical era in Middle Eastern diplomacy.

Authentication & Provenance:

• Source: Directly consigned by Jack Ford, son of President Gerald R. Ford.

• Auction Label: Still present inside the presentation case (Lot #393), from the original sale.

• Presentation Case: Original Jordanian Ministry-issued blue velvet-lined box, indicative of official diplomatic gifts.

Provenance documentation, including photographs and auction records, is available by request as printed copies or can be viewed/saved directly from our website.

Closing Appeal:

This distinguished medal embodies a personal diplomatic gift exchanged between two world leaders, King Hussein of Jordan and President Gerald R. Ford, reflecting a moment of pivotal international relations. Its documented Ford family provenance, combined with its intricate design and historical significance, makes it a highly desirable piece for collectors of presidential memorabilia, Middle Eastern diplomatic artifacts, and Cold War-era history.