Step into history with this rare commemorative medal, crafted to honor the grand opening of the Crystal Palace at Sydenham in 1854. Featuring a bust of Sir Joseph Paxton on the obverse and an image of the magnificent palace on the reverse, this medal celebrates a monumental moment in architectural and cultural history. With a diameter of 50mm and crafted by Allen & Moore, this medal is a prized relic of a bygone era.

Historical Background:

The Crystal Palace, a marvel of Victorian architecture, was originally constructed in Hyde Park, London, for the Great Exhibition of 1851. Designed by Sir Joseph Paxton, it showcased the technological advancements and cultural achievements of the time. After the exhibition, the Crystal Palace was dismantled and rebuilt in Sydenham, where it reopened in June 1854 as a center for education, entertainment, and enlightenment. This commemorative medal pays homage to Paxton’s visionary design and the enduring legacy of the Crystal Palace at Sydenham.

Key Features:

1. Iconic Design: The medal features a bust of Sir Joseph Paxton, the visionary architect behind the Crystal Palace, on the obverse, while the reverse showcases an image of the palace itself, along with the inscription highlighting its role as “a vast repository of instruction and amusement.”

2. Historical Significance: As a rare artifact from the mid-19th century, this medal embodies the spirit of innovation and progress that defined the Victorian era, serving as a tangible reminder of the Crystal Palace’s cultural significance.

3. Collector’s Item: With its large diameter of 50mm and association with a historic event, this medal is highly sought-after by collectors of Victorian memorabilia and numismatics alike.

4. Makers’ Mark: Crafted by Allen & Moore, renowned makers of fine medals and tokens, this piece bears the hallmark of quality craftsmanship and authenticity.

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