(1892-93) Medal Elgit-36a White Metal World's Columbian Expo

Coin Details

Description

This white metal medal, dated 1892-93 and cataloged as Eglit-36a in Levine's reference, represents a version of the design that spans both years of the World's Columbian Exposition. While the fair's main grounds opened in May 1893, the Columbian anniversary was officially observed in 1892, and many commemorative pieces were produced and sold during the lead-up year. Dual-dated medals like this one acknowledge the full span of the Columbian celebration. The Exposition was initially planned to open on October 12, 1892 — the precise 400th anniversary of Columbus's landfall — and dedication ceremonies were indeed held that month, though the fairgrounds were not ready for public admission until the following May. This extended timeline meant that souvenirs bearing 1892, 1893, or combined 1892-93 dates all circulated legitimately, and collectors of WCE medals encounter all three dating conventions. White metal was the most affordable option among the various striking metals used for Columbian Exposition medals, making it the material of choice for vendors targeting the broadest possible market. The Eglit-36a variant within the larger Eglit-36 design family appears in this and other metal compositions, reflecting the common practice of producing popular designs across multiple substrates to maximize sales.

Rarity Notes

The 1892-93 dual-dated version is somewhat less common than the single-year 1893 issues, as most medal production concentrated in the year the fair was open. White metal composition; condition-sensitive.

Cross References

Eglit-36a; PCGS #545294