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

U.S.A., Panama-Pacific International Exposition, San Francisco, 1915, a silver medal by R.I. Aitken for the Medallic Art Co and struck in the Expo grounds, two robed female figures representing North and South America supporting cornucopiæ above a globe centred on Panama, rev. standing figure of Mercury, nude, holding caduceus and opening lock-gates for a Viking longboat, 38mm, 30.13g (Shevlin-Hyder 18-1; Baxter 113; Hibler-Kappen 399; cf. Brand II, 1233; cf. BSJ 37, 576). Very fine, toned £50-£70

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

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Collection

J.S. Giordano Collection, DNW Auction M1, 15 December 2005, lot 1595

The exposition was held from 20 February to 4 December 1915. Its stated purpose was to celebrate the completion of the Panama Canal, but it was widely seen in the city of San Francisco as an opportunity to showcase its recovery from the 1906 earthquake. The medallist won a prize of $1,000 for his design.