A research question about a four -inch Joseph Francis Lifesaving medal
CaptHenway
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Posted for a friend. I can forward responses.
Anyone know where to find a 4-inch Joseph Francis medal in bronze (not the 76mm copies)?
A Congressional gold medal was awarded to inventor Joseph Francis for a device for rescuing people from a ship sinking near shore. It was called the The Francis Metallic Life-Car and the gold medal was presented in April 1890. The device was in use in the Americas and Europe and is credited with saving many lives.
One fine gold medal and 9 bronzed copper medals in 4-inch (101mm) diameter format were made. Later a 76mm (3-inch) reduction was made for public sale. The gold original is in the Smithsonian, but I have not located the other 9 full size medals.
Any suggestions will be appreciated and acknowledged in the article.
Thanks!
Comments
Wouldn't they all have been presented to Joseph Francis? If none have been seen/recorded as sold, looking for descendants would be a start. Why would someone want/need one? or is it just for a picture for an article?
The Joseph Francis medal was struck in the 4-inch size at least into the 1930’s. There are likely hundreds out there. Locating one with the preferred, early finish is difficult. Later strikes less so.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art has one in their collection
Apparently donated by a family member Gift of Isaac P Francis (through Chamber of Commerce) 1894
Yeah, the example at the Metropolitan Museum of Art looks promising: https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/14528
Stack's lists several in their online archives. Two are clearly 20th century strikes. One of them looks like it might have a 19th century finish (and based on the final price, the bidders thought so also: https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-2RYKO/1888-joseph-francis-life-saving-medal-bronze-1021-mm-julian-ls-13-mint-state
That's Julian LS-13. Julian lists about 40 struck through the 1890s.