London, South Kensington International Exhibition1862, white metal medal by Messrs Pinches

Obv: view of Exhibition buiding, plinth below with WEST FRONT, at top INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION, in exergue OPENED MAY 1ST MDCCCLXII

Rev: Britannia seated holding a Union flag, next to her is Commerce seated holding flag with EUROPE ASIA AFRICA AMERICA AUSTRALASIA, sailing ships in harbour beyond

Diameter: 51mm; Condition: Almost extremely fine, minor reverse edge damage at two o'clock. Rare in this larger size.

References: BHM 2739; Allen SK-B220; Taylor 182r

Notes: the Exhibition was intended as a tenth anniversary of the Great Exhibition (1851), but was delayed by the outbreak of war in Italy. On 1st May 1862 the Duke of Cambridge opened it on behalf of Queen Victoria (now in mourning after the recent death of Prince Albert). The Exhibition was held on what is now the site of the Victoria & Albert Museum, the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum and the Royal Albert Hall (formerly all part of the 86-acre Kensington Gore estate, bought by the Royal Commissioners for the Exhibition). This medal was privately issued by Pinches, the larger version (as here) being considered rare.

Price £22