1893 Medal Eglit-17 White Metal 40mm World's Columbian Expo

Coin Details

Auction Record

$134 MS64 05-11-2022 Heritage Auctions

Description

This 1893 white metal medal, cataloged as Eglit-17 in Levine's World's Columbian Exposition reference, measures 40 millimeters and was produced as a souvenir of the great Chicago fair. White metal — a tin-based alloy sometimes incorporating antimony and lead — was a popular and affordable medium for exposition medals, offering a bright silvery appearance without the cost of precious metals. The World's Columbian Exposition of 1893 was one of the most significant world's fairs in history, transforming 690 acres of Jackson Park and the Midway Plaisance into a neoclassical wonderland designed by Daniel Burnham, Frederick Law Olmsted, and a roster of America's leading architects. The fair commemorated Columbus's 1492 voyage and showcased American industrial achievement alongside international cultural exhibits. Among its many innovations, the Exposition introduced the public to alternating current electricity, courtesy of Westinghouse and Nikola Tesla, illuminating the White City's buildings in a spectacle that earned Chicago the nickname "the city of light." At 40mm, this piece occupies a middle ground between the smaller pocket-sized tokens and the larger display medals produced for the Exposition. The white metal composition allowed for crisp striking detail while keeping the retail price within reach of typical fairgoers. Levine's Eglit catalog classifies this among the general commemorative issues rather than the official award or exhibitor medals.

Rarity Notes

White metal souvenir medal produced for general sale at the Columbian Exposition. The 40mm format in white metal is relatively common among WCE collectibles. Condition varies widely due to the soft nature of white metal alloys.

Cross References

Eglit-17; PCGS #899562