25204

Columbian Exposition Award Medal and Case

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Historical Memorabilia Start Price:37.50 USD Estimated At:150.00 - 250.00 USD
Columbian Exposition Award Medal and Case
<B>Columbian Exposition Award Medal and Case- Designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens.</B></I> The World's Columbian Exposition was celebrated in 1893 in the city of Chicago to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Columbus' arrival in the "New World." The most enduring image of this Expo is the statue entitled "Republic" which was made by Daniel Chester French and stood in the "Great Basin". The image of this statue is similar to that of Columbus on this handsome and imposing medal. Columbus is pictured stepping onto the soil of the new world with his arms outstretched as several religious-looking figures flank him on either side. The image is done in very high relief and was designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, famous sculptor and designer of the "double eagle" gold piece (regarded by many as the most beautiful American coin ever produced). His name and the word <I>"fecit"</B></I> (latin for made) appear on the very edge of the obverse. The reverse of this medal depicts two winged women atop an image of ships and the world. The commemorative plaque area is flanked by two torches. The inscription reads: "World's Columbian Exposition in Commemoration of the Four Hundredth Anniversary of the Landing of Columbus. MDCCCXCII - MDCCCXCIII to Ferdinand Eissner." <BR><BR>The medal comes in its original display case and a small card stating that these medals were produced by Scovill Manufacturing Company in Waterbury, Connecticut. Scovill is also known for its long time manufacturing of military buttons, including many Civil War examples which we often handle in our sales. On an interesting note, the reverse, designed by Saint-Gaudens, was not used, even though he offered to modify it many times. The reverse they eventually chose was designed by another artist all together. This unique mixture is a beautiful relic from this expo. In choice condition with flaws visible. Diameter 79mm.