A quick introduction about Historical Medallions
Welcome to my new website showcasing historical medallions from the last four centuries. You may be familiar with my late Aunt, Mrs Neddy Allen who was a numismatist for over 40 years, and had a special interest in medallions related to the City of London. She learnt about the medal business from her late husband, Peter Maundy Allen, and continued to trade well into her 80's. Over the last 15 years, she gradually passed on her knowledge to me and it was the stories behind each of the medallions that I found fascinating. These historical events shaped our country and many have significance still to this day. Whether it be a gift for someone interested in a special event or something that adds to your collection, owning a medallion is to have a true piece of history to treasure.
Discover Our Unique Medals & Medallions Collections
Art Union Of London Medals
A Great Way To Start Your Collection Of Commemorative Medals
The Art Union of London was founded in 1837 with the aim of bringing Art to the People. Members of the Union paid an annual subscription and in return received pieces of art worth at least the amount of their subscription.
They also had the opportunity to win objects of art of considerable value through an annual lottery. A series of 30 medals were struck on behalf of the Art Union to be used as prizes for subscribers.
They commemorated the history of British Art featuring famous artists from the previous 150 years but also served to revive interest in medallist art and British engravers. The medals began in 1843 and ended in 1887.
Rare Medals
Trends in the market can impact value as certain subject matter becomes topical or sought after for whatever reason, however, the value of a medal is largely dependent on two factors, it’s rarity and it’s condition.
Often the number struck of a particular medal is advertised, and certainly, in the late 19th century very large numbers of commemorative medals were produced for events such as the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria where over 7000 of the official medallion were struck.
However, some medals have only a small issue, and also older medals become rarer as versions are either lost or melted down. The list above is a selection of medals that have been labelled as rare by well-known reference books such as Medallic Illustrations (Spink & Son Ltd) and British Historical Medals by Brown.
Medallion News
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