The Silich Collection of Historical and Art Medals (Part II)

ENGLAND, The Great Exhibition, Hyde Park, London, 1851, a bronze-gilt medal by Allen & Moore, bust of Prince Albert right, ornate border around, rev. three-dimensional view of the Crystal Palace; in exergue, seated figure of Industry flanked by four females, 89mm, 328.95g (Allen HP-B145; cf. BHM 2418 obv.; E 1460; cf. DNW M10, 1218). Notches in edge [probably from prior mounting in glazed frame], about extremely fine, very rare £300-£400

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The Silich Collection of Historical and Art Medals.

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The Great Exhibition of the Works of Industry of All Nations, also known as the Great Exhibition or the Crystal Palace Exhibition (in reference to the temporary structure in which it was held), was staged in Hyde Park from 1 May to 15 October 1851. The first in a series of world's fairs, exhibitions of culture and industry, the event was organised by Henry Cole and Prince Albert and attracted 6 million visitors. Although the standard references quote these medals as being struck in white metal, XRF analysis of the present specimen show high levels of copper (33.1%), tin (48.0%) and gold/gilt (15.4%), which explains its heavy weight