The Icons of Route 66 Celebrates the States Route 66 Crossed
On November 11, 1926, a highway opened that would become one of the most famous roads in America – U.S. Route 66. This 2,448-mile road, winding its way from Chicago to Santa Monica, was the backdrop for numerous family road trips in the first half of the 20th century, providing miles of entertainment and peculiar attractions in a time before cell phones.
APMEX has introduced a new series celebrating this truly timeless icon and some of the quirkiest landmarks that can still be found along this long stretch of road. The Icons of Route 66 Series will celebrate each state Route 66 passed through, with eight unique releases.
Starting in Illinois, the inaugural release of the Icons of Route 66 Series features the towering Gemini Giant. Located in Wilmington, just outside Chicago, this 30-foot-tall statue is one of many giant “Muffler Man” advertising props found throughout the United States in the 1960s, selling mufflers, hot dogs, axes and more. One of the most photographed attractions along Route 66, the Gemini Giant was named after the Gemini space program and holds a Silver rocket ship while wearing a space helmet that resembles a welding mask.
The Silver Gemini Giant, similar to all releases in this spectacular new series, is designed to be reminiscent of the iconic Route 66 road sign itself. Each Silver highway shield comes in a custom shield-shaped capsule, protecting the .999 fine Silver content and the classic yet contemporary design. The limited-production run of the Silver Gemini Giant is sure to add collectible appeal to the Silver content and inherent nostalgic value.
The passage of the Interstate Highway Act of 1956 meant Route 66’s days were numbered. Within 20 years, the historic and landmark-laden highway was replaced with bigger interstates. However, more than 80 percent of Route 66 remains accessible today as county roads, service roads, state highways and historic trails.
Regardless of modern-day progress, this “Main Street of America” will always be a travel trendsetter, with older generations longing for the glory days and younger generations wanting a taste of the one-of-a-kind journey Route 66 travelers experienced. Shop the first Icons of Route 66 Highway Shield release today and start your own Route 66 adventure.