Commemorative, Historical and Art Medals

Honradez Cigarette Manufactory, Havana, Royal Appointment, c. 1860, a bronze medal, Royal arms against a background of trophies, rev. Justice holds balance, legend in concentric lines around, 58mm. Extremely fine or virtually so £120-150

Provenance: W. Raymond Collection, NASCA Auction (New York), 6-8 December 1978, lot 2188.

‘A Cigarette Manufacturer at Havana’, Walter Goodman, London Society magazine, 1872: “I pause before the imposing factory of Louis Susini and Son, situated in a little Piaza in the Calle de Cuba. It is here that the best cigarettes, popularly known as Honradez, are manufactured. The exterior of the building with its marble columns reminding one of the Genoese palace, is worthy of attention. Above the grand entrance is the Honradez figure of justice, bearing the famous motto: Los hechos me justificarao – My deeds will justify me.”