1893 Medal Eglit-106 Bronze 102mm World's Columbian Expo

Coin Details

Description

This 1893 bronze medal at 102 millimeters, cataloged as Eglit-106, is the bronze version of the massive design also known in bronzed copper and white metal from 1892. The 1893 date indicates this particular striking was produced during the fair's operating season, in response to demand generated by the earlier 1892 issues or as part of a separate production run for the opening year. At 102mm in bronze, this is among the most substantial medals produced for any American world's fair. The bronze composition provides excellent durability compared to the fragile white metal version, and pieces in bronze at this size have generally survived in better condition over the past 130 years. The weight of a 102mm bronze medal — several hundred grams — gives the piece a commanding physical presence that reinforces its status as a collector's or institutional display piece. The existence of Eglit-106 in three different metals across two years (1892 and 1893) indicates that this design was produced by a well-established medal firm with access to the heavy presses and skilled die sinkers needed for large-format work. The 102mm format was typically the province of major European and American die-sinking houses — firms like Tiffany & Co., Gorham, or their European counterparts — rather than smaller souvenir manufacturers.

Rarity Notes

Rare large-format bronze medal. The 1893-dated 102mm bronze version is scarce, as production of medals at this size was inherently limited. Bronze ensures better survival than white metal, but edge damage and contact marks at this exposed diameter affect many examples.

Cross References

Eglit-106; PCGS #965470