(1893) Medal Eglit-53 Silver 38mm Col. Geo R Davis

Coin Details

Description

This undated silver medal, cataloged as Eglit-53 in Levine's reference at 38 millimeters, features Colonel George R. Davis, the Director-General of the World's Columbian Exposition. Davis, a Civil War veteran and Republican congressman from Illinois, was appointed by President Benjamin Harrison to oversee the massive organizational effort required to build and operate the fair. As Director-General, Davis managed a staff of thousands, coordinated with foreign commissioners representing 46 nations, and navigated the complex politics between the federal Columbian Commission and the privately funded Exposition Company. The silver composition of this medal elevates it well above typical souvenir pieces — silver medals from the Columbian Exposition were produced in limited quantities and typically reserved for presentation or award purposes. At 38mm, the piece is sized to the standard presentation medal format, indicating it was produced for distribution to Exposition officials, foreign dignitaries, or distinguished exhibitors rather than for general public sale. Colonel Davis's tenure as Director-General was marked by the extraordinary challenge of completing the White City on schedule despite financial pressures, labor disputes, and the sheer scale of the undertaking. The fairgrounds encompassed over 600 acres, with major exhibition buildings covering more than 200 acres of floor space. Davis's leadership helped ensure that the Exposition opened on May 1, 1893 and successfully operated through its October closing.

Rarity Notes

Rare silver presentation medal. Silver Columbian Exposition medals were produced in very limited quantities compared to base metal souvenirs. The Davis portrait type is a specialized collector item appealing to both WCE medal collectors and Civil War/political medal enthusiasts.

Cross References

Eglit-53; PCGS #928315; Colonel George R. Davis, Director-General WCE