19TH C SCHOOL MEDALS - REWARD OF MERIT - UNIQUE PAIR (02/10/2011)

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19TH C SCHOOL MEDALS - REWARD OF MERIT - UNIQUE PAIR

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19TH C SCHOOL MEDALS - REWARD OF MERIT - UNIQUE PAIR

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Sold Date: 02/10/2011
Channel: Online Auction
Source: eBay
Category: Fraternal, Political, Organizations

Here is a unique pair of 19th century Reward of Merit school medals which I had collected over the years and which really represent a study in contrast. I honestly don't know which of the two medals appeals to me more.

Both medals are of the exact same die struck design but one was stuck in solid silver and the other in white metal. They have the classic image of the beehive representing industry on the obverse.

The obverse of the medal reads: The Triumph of Industry

The reverse of the medal reads: Reward of Merit

Diameter of both medals is 1 1/4".

The first medal, struck in solid silver, is as mint as the day it was struck, and would be considered mint state or uncirculated if you prefer. The fields are bright and highly reflective and while the scans don't show it, both sides have beautifull soft natural toning in hues of blue, green and orange. The eye appeal is exceptional.

The second medal, struck in white metal, has a use history that screams both pride and practicality. Even though it was struck in inexpensive white metal, it nevertheless had a hole drilled at the top so that it could proudly be displayed by being worn around the neck. Then at some point later in its 19th century history, there was a need to replace a missing button, and two additional holes were drilled into it so that it could have a whole second life as a shirt or pants button. It is as far from mint state as one could imagine, but to me at least it is just as appealing at the first mint state example. I hope there is someone out there that might enjoy this pair as much as I have.

Thanks for your interest.

This will be shipped by Priority Mail Flat Rate Envelope. Purchases may be combined to save on shipping - just advise me.