This design by Finke was chosen as the 117th issue of the prestigious Society of Medalists series.
Its obverse bears nude couple at left with backs to viewer; angry youth storming off at right.
The reverse bears returned prodigal son at center being embraced by parents; flowers to left and right. At lower right, signed LEONDA F FINKE
Leonda Finke used her own experiences, both as a child and as a mother, to create a medal that had meaning. While previously the majority of her body of work had been sculptural and dealing with the female form, she wrote in the brochure accompanying this medal:
"Only recently have I begun to explore the art of the medal. The Prodigal need not relate only to the son. Our deepest life experiences are not necessarily gender oriented. I was a prodigal daughter in my own youthful rebellion and struggle for independence. Today I also appreciate the other side of the relationship as a parent of adult children who fled and returned—each in a different way."
The medal measures 73mm x 70mm and was produced by the Medallic Art Company. The edition was limited to 2,500 pieces in bronze but the actual mintage is not known.