Irish Medals in Gold and Silver from the Collection of James Spencer

Dublin, Farming Society of Ireland (Inst. 1800), a silver Honorary Membership medal by W.S. Mossop, plough, rev. wreath, named (Richd. Astley), 34mm (cf. D & W 128/216; cf. MG 1037; Gilbert 25; Frazer p.455). Two minor edge bruises on obverse, otherwise very fine and attractively toned, very rare; with clip, ring and original blue ribbon (£60-80)

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, Irish Medals in Gold and Silver from the Collection of James Spencer.

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In 1800 several improving landlords, including John Foster of Collon and the Marquis of Sligo, formed a Farming Society to promote good agricultural practice, to improve seeds, to acquire better farm machinery and tools and to improve Irish livestock. The Farming Society began holding two annual shows of agricultural produce, one in Dublin and one at Ballinasloe, co Galway (see lot 1163), for the exhibition of improved livestock and seeds. The show at Ballinasloe was held in the grounds of Lord Clancarty, a model farmer. When the Farming Society came to an end about 1830, the Royal Dublin Society was persuaded to undertake its ancient duty once again and stage the annual Spring Show in Dublin. This medal and the next were issued in 1806