Arthur L. Newman '23

Collection of Aeronautical Medals

(NC010)
 

Complete Item Listing
 
 

Numismatics Division
Department of Rare Books and Special Collections
Princeton University Library
2000


The medals are arranged chronologically by date of the event (shown in bold). The first number indicates the year; the second number the month of the year; the third number the day of the month. Those of which the date is unknown are at the end and are given full identifying letters of the alphabet.
Arthur L. Newman
New York, New York

1490-1919

 
1490
First of the TWA "Milestones of Manned Flight" series, in proof-finish sterling silver.
Obverse: Three-quartered front face over the name "LEONARDO DA VINCI".
Reverse: Shows a sketch made by Da Vinci in 1490 of a flying machine actuated by man's muscular power. At the top reads "CONCEPT OF MANNED FLIGHT" and the bottom the date "1490".
Circular: 1.5" (40mm) in diameter rim is milled and shows the hallmark of the Birmingham Mint of England.
9500 Sets were minted. The series consists of Da Vinci, the Montgolfier Brothers, the Wright brothers, Lindbergh, Earhart, and Apollo 11. The same medals, in a oxidized silver finish, are being distributed to passengers on TWA flights as a promotional device.
See also 1940.
1783-6-5
Bronze medal struck to commemorate the Montgolfiers' invention of the hot air balloon.
Obverse: Profiles of Montgolfier brothers surrounded by the text "JOSE ET ETIEN MONTGOLFIER POUR AVOIR RENDU L'AIR NAVIGABLE" (Jose and Etien Montgolfier, for having rendered air navigable). 
Reverse: Balloon and two emblematic female figures, one seated on a cloud. Around the upper portion are the words "ATTONITUS ORBIS TERRARUM" (The world astonished) and at the bottom "ITINERE PER AERA FELICITER TENTATO ANNO MDCCLXXXIII" (A journey through air felicitously attempted in the year 1783). The name of the artist, "GATTEAUX".
Circular: 1 5/9" (41mm) in diameter.
The first flight is thought to have taken place on June 5, 1783, and the medal to have been issued shortly after. The likeness on the medal is of the first balloon.
1783-6-5a
Bronze medal struck to commemorate the Montgolfier's invention of the hot air balloon by the order of Louis XVI.
Obverse: The Montgolfier fire balloon and hot air balloon: at the top, the words "AUDACIA-FELIX" (Fortune favors audacity). Below the balloon, the legend "AERA PERMEARUNT XXI NOV. L. F. DARLANDES ET F. PILATRE. I. DEC. J. A. C. CHARLES ET M. N. ROBERT ANNO MDCCLXXXIII" ( On the 21st of November, L. F. D'Arlandes and F. Pilatre; on the 1st of December J.A.C. Charles and M.N. Robert, in the year 1783, navigated the air).
Reverse: Stars encircling the legend "PATEFACTO PER AERA ITINERE A. JOSEPHO ET STEPHANO MONTGOLFIER V. JUNII MDCCLXXXIII REI MEMORIAM POSTERITATI TRADI JUSSIT LUDOVICUS XVI. ANNO MDCCLXXXIII" (Struck in commemoration of the aerial journey of Joseph and Stephan Montgolfier on the 5th of June 1783, as a remembrance to posterity by order of Louis XVI).
Circular: 2" (51mm) in diameter.
Some re-strikes were made in sterling silver.
1783-6-5b
Second of the TWA "Milestones of Manned Flight" series, honoring the Montgolfier Brothers, in sterling silver.
Obverse: Profiles facing right, over the names "STEPHAN & JOSEPH MONTGOLFIER".
Reverse: Hot-air balloon making an ascent, under the legend "FIRST ASCENT OF MAN". At the bottom, the date of the first flight "1783".
Circular: 1½" (40mm) in diameter. Rim is milled and shows the hallmark of the Birmingham Mint of England.
The same medal in an oxidized silver finish, is being distributed to passengers on TWA flights as a promotional device. The other five are Da Vinci, Wright Bros., Lindbergh, Earhart, and Apollo 11.
1783-8-27
Bronze medal commemorating an early flight of the Montgolfier balloon. 
Obverse: Profiles, superimposed, and around the border the words "JOSE ET ETIEN MONTGOLFIER - POUR AVOIR RENDU L'AIR NAVIGABLE".
Reverse: A balloon in flight over the clouds, with a background of a French city and a large field. Underneath, the words "EXPERIENCE DU CHAMP DE MARS 27 AOUST 1783. ENVERTU D'UNE SOUSCRIPTION SOUS LA DIRECT. DE M. FAUIAS DE ST. FOND".
Circular: 1" (41mm) in diameter.
1784-1-19
Bronze medal commemorating balloon ascent at Lyons in 1784 (restrike). 
Obverse: Winged figure (genie) on a lion writing on a tablet. In the background, the place of ascent, clouds and the balloon in the air. Below, the legend "MEDAILLE FRAPP. EN VERTU D'UNE SOUSCRIPT FAITE A LYONS PAR LES SOINS DE M. ACHET ECUIER OFF. DE MONSIEUR FRERE DU ROI" (Medal struck by virtue of a subscription handled at Lyon under the auspices of M. Achet, the official head of horse of the brother of the King).
Reverse: "L'AEROSTAT, NOMME LE DE FLESSELLES, DE 100 Pds. DE Dtre SUR 118 DE hr S'EST ELEVE A 1400 Tes. DES BROTTEAUX A LYON MONTE PAR MM. MONTGOLFIER, Lne Pilatre DE ROSIER, CHARLE PRINCE DE LIGNE, LES Ctes. DE LAURENCIN, DE LA PORTE D'ANGLEFORT, LE Mis. DE DAMPIERE ET M. FONTAINE LE 19 Jer. 1784" (The balloon, named Fesselle, with its dimensions recitated, ascended at Brotteaux in Lyons, carrying Mr. Montgolfier (the elder brother), Pilatre de Rosier, Charles, Prince of the Line, the Counts Laurencin and de la Porte D'Anglefort, the Marquis de Dampiere and M. Fontaine).
Circular: 1" (41mm) in diameter.
1784-3-3
Bronze medal struck for early balloon flight.
Obverse: Profile bust facing right. Around the perimeter, the information "PAULUS ANDREANIUS PATER.MEDIOL AERONAUTA". At base of bust the name of the sculptor "A. GUILLEMARD".
Reverse: Shows ascending balloon in high relief. Around perimeter is the information "AUSUS ES UNUS ITALORUM * HAC ITUR ASTRA VIRE * III ID MAR MDCCLXXXIV".
Circular: 1 11/16" (43mm) in diameter.
1784-9-15
Bronze medal celebrating Vincent Lunardi's ascent from London.
Obverse: Profile surrounded by "VINCENT LUNARDI". At base are the words, "FIRST AERIAL TRAVELER IN ENGLAND".
Reverse: Balloon in flight showing extended oars surrounded by Latin words "ET SE PROTINIES AETHEREA VOLLIT IN ASTRA VIA". At base, the date of the flight, "SEPTEMBER 15, MDCCLXXXIV".
Circular: 1" (35mm) in diameter.
Vincent Lunardi, secretary to the Italian Ambassador, made the first substantial flight in England when he ascended from London on September 15, 1784. His flight lasted 85 minutes. One of the oars that he fitted his balloon with broke soon after he took off. The voyage was widely acclaimed, "a public testimonial was subscribed; and a medal was struck in his honor" (see Conquering the Air by Archibald Williams p. 21. Nelson 1930).
1785-10-3
Lead medal struck to commemorate Jean Pierre Blanchard's 15th ascent in Frankfurt on Main.
Obverse: Profile of Blanchard's head and chest, over the words "FRANCOFURT D. 3. OCT". Around the rim are the words "BLANCHARD SURSUM ECIMUM QUINTUM FACIENS ITER". (Blanchard making his 15th ascent).
Reverse: View of town of Frankfurt, viewed from the west. Above the town is Blanchard in a balloon on which two flags are fastened. Around the rim are the words "GALLIA SAEPIUS PLAUSIT! IAM GERMANIA PLAUDE" (France has applauded often - now Germany applauds). Underneath is the data "MDCCLXXXV" (1785).
Circular: 1 25/32" (46mm) in diameter.
The engraver was probably Johann Christian Reich. Blanchard was a noted French pioneer aeronaut. In January 1785, accompanied by the American Dr. Jefferies, he made the first balloon crossing of the English Channel. He later made what was probably the first ascent in the U.S.A. on January 9, 1793. This medal is listed as item 665 in Maggs Bros. catalogue No. 545, issued in 1930.
1787
Lead medal struck to commemorate Blanchard's 25th ascent, in Nuremberg in 1787.
Obverse: Profile bust of Blanchard, surrounded by the words "BLANCHARD VICESIUM OCTAVUM FACIENS ITER" (Blanchard making the 28th trip). The initials of the artist "MR" are at the base of the bust.
Reverse: View of the town of Nuremburg, with Blanchard waving a flag in a balloon hovering over the town. At the base is the name "NORIMBERGE". Around the upper portion are the words "GALLIA SAEPIUS PLAUSIT IAM GERMANIA PLAU" (France has applauded often - Now let Germany applaud).
Circular: 1 27/32" (47mm) in diameter.
This medal is listed as item 667 in Maggs Bros. catalogue No. 545, issued in 1930.
1788
Bronze medal honoring Blanchard, struck in 1788.
Obverse: Bust of Blanchard and his name in Latin, "IOANNES PETRUS BLANCHARD". Also shows name of artist "F. LOOS".
Reverse: Balloon in flight under the legend "IMPAVIDUS SORTEM NON TIMET ICARIAM MDCCLXXXVIII". 
Circular: 1 3/16" (30mm) in diameter.
1789
Silver medal struck in Germany to commemorate Blanchard's flight to Breslau in 1789.
Obverse: Profile bust of Blanchard, surrounded by the words "LUFTSCHIFFER M. BLANCHARD".
Reverse: View of Brelau, with balloon in flight over the town. Around the upper portion are the words "LUFTREISE ZU BRESLAU" (aerial trip to Breslau). At the base is the date "1789".
Circular: 1 1/8" (23mm) in diameter.
For other Blanchard medals, see index.
1799-8-2
Bronze medal stuck in honor of Etienne Montgolfier.
Obverse: Profile bust, facing left, and name "ETIENNE MONTGOLFIER". Under the bust the name of the artist "CAQUE F.".
Reverse: The information "NE / A VIDALON / PRES ANNONAY / EN MDCC XLV / MORT / EN / MDCCXCIX". There is also the notation "GALERIE METALLIQUE / DES GRANDS HOMMES FRANCAIS 1821".
Circular: 1 9/16" (40mm) in diameter.
Etienne Montgolfier died on August 2, 1799, and his brother, Joseph, died on June 26, 1810.
1803-9
Silver medal struck for an 1803 flight over Berlin by M. and Mme. Garnerin.
Obverse: Profile head and shoulders of Andre-Jacques Garnerin and his wife, Jeanne Genevieve, supported on clouds. At the top, the words "TE DUCE IBIMUS ILLAC". At the bottom, their names "ANDR. JAC. JOH. GENOV. GARNERIN". Also shows the name of the artist "Loos".
Reverse: Mercury flies in front of the Garnerin's balloon. Around the perimeter, the legend "HAC ITER EST SUPERIS AD MAGNI TECTA TONANTIS" and at the base, the place and date "BEROLINI APRIL MDCCCIII".
Circular: 1 ½" (36mm) in diameter.
Mme. Garnerin was also a professional aeronaut and, like her husband, made parachute descents.
1811-10-7
Pewter medal struck to commemorate ascent by James Sadler on October 7, 1811.
Obverse: Profile of Sadler, surrounded by words "JAMES SADLER, FIRST ENGLISH AERONAUT". (Sadler was 60 years of age at the time of the ascent).
Reverse: Sketch of balloon's car, showing two passengers. At neck of balloon are the words "THE 21ST ASCENT". Around the rim is the text "ASCENDED FROM BIRMINGHAM, TRAVERS'D UPWARDS OF 112 MILES IN 1 HOUR AND 20 MINUTES. OCTOBER 7, 1811".
Circular: 2 1/16" (53mm) in diameter.
James Sadler was the first Englishman to fly. In 1785, after many flights, Sadler gave up ballooning but resumed around 1810 at an age of 59 and made several most excellent flights.
1823-6-23
Copper token issued in England around 1823.
Obverse: Balloon in flight and around it, the words "SPARROW NAIL MERCHANT - LONDON".
Reverse: Shows the phase "SPARROW'S LEATHER SAUCE".
Circular: 7/8" (23mm) in diameter.
1823-6-23a
Copper token issued in England around 1823.
Obverse: Balloon in flight and around it, the words "IRONMONGER BISHOPSGATE LONDON".
Reverse: Shows the phase "ISSAC EARLYSMAN - SPARROW".
Circular: 7/8" (23mm) in diameter.
1823-6-23b
Copper token issued in England around 1823.
Obverse: Balloon in flight and around it, the words "ASCENDED AT OXFORD JUNE 23, 1823".
Reverse: Shows the phase "IRONMONGER BISHOPSGATE LONDON".
Circular: 7/8" (23mm) in diameter.
1836-11-7
Bronze medal struck to commemorate cross country flight from London by Charles Green on November 7, 1836.
Obverse: Profile of Green, surrounded by words "CHARLES GREEN AERONAUT" and the artist name, "W. J. TAYLOR".
Reverse: Shows balloon in flight beyond London. Inscription around the top reads "From London November 7, 1836" and around the lower portion "TO WEILBURG, GERMANY, IN 18 HOURS IN COMPANY WITH ROBT. HOLLAND M.P. & M. MASON, ESQ".
Circular: 1" (42mm) in diameter.
This flight by the celebrated English aeronaut Charles Green and his companions in the giant balloon "Great Nassau" covered 500 miles in 18 hours. There is a full account of the voyage in M. Mason's Aeronautica.
1859
Copper-bronze medal struck to publicize the giant balloon "CITY OF NEW YORK".
Obverse: The balloon , showing on its net the name "CITY OF NEW YORK". Around the edge of the medal the words "GREAT AIR SHIP * CITY OF NEW YORK".
Reverse: "DIAMETER 130 FEET. HEIGHT 200 FEET. WEIGHT WITH OUTFIT 3 ½ TONS. LIFTING POWER 22 TONS. CAPACITY OF GAS ENVELOPS 375,000 CUBIC FEET".
Circular: 1" (35mm) in diameter.
In 1859, J.S.C. Lowe obtained backing for construction of the largest airship built up to that time. Beneath the huge balloon was a steam powered lifeboat with paddle wheel and a large propeller, intended to raise or lower the craft without releasing any of its hydrogen. Inflation was begun on the grounds of the Crystal Palace, 42nd Street and 5th Avenue, New York City, but sufficient hydrogen could not be delivered. The balloon burst at an attempted inflation at Philadelphia on September 8, 1860.
Same medal in white medal.
1868
Brass gilt medal given or sold to passengers making flight in captive balloon in London.
Obverse: Shows giant balloon in tethered flight from large arena. At left bottom the name of the artist "LABOUCHE".
Reverse: "CAPTIVE ASCENTS - LONDON. DIMENSIONS OF THE BALLOON, DIAMETER 90 FT., CUBE 300,000FT., HEIGHT OF ASCENTS 2,000 FT., POWER OF ENGINE 200 H.P. NUMBER OF PASSENGERS".
Circular: 2" (50mm) in diameter.
This monster balloon was probably brought to England in 1868 by the Frenchman Henri Giffard who had successfully flown a similar passenger carrying captive balloon at the Paris exhibition in 1867.
1870
Bronze meal struck for the participation in establishing communications with the outside world during the siege of Paris.
Obverse:  Female figure sitting on a cannon carriage holds outstretched hands to a pigeon. There is a balloon in the upper right background. In the exergue, the information:"PARIS/ 1870-71".
Reverse: In the center, a wicker basket with a pigeon flying overhead. There is a background of microfilm strips on the messages were inscribed. At the top MINISTRERE DE LA GUERRE" and in the exergue, "COMMUNICATION/AERIENNES".
Circular:  2 7/16" (62mm) in diameter. The word "BRONZE" appears on the rim.
1870-10-22
Lead medal commemorating the dispatch of news by balloon during the siege of Paris in the Franco-Russian War.
Obverse: Balloon surrounded by the name of the balloon and the date "LE LAVOISIER LE 22 X 1870". Around the border is the text "PART DE LA GARE D'ORLEANS CONDUIT PAR LE MARIN LEDRET".
Reverse: Bird in flight surrounded by the words "PAR LA PHOTOSTENOGRAPHIC, DIRECTEUR STEENAKERS". Around the border are the words "LES MESSAGERS PARTENT PAR BALLON POSTE ET APPORTENT MES NOUVELLES".
Circular: 1 1/8" (28mm) in diameter.
1876
Bronze medal given to those who ascended in Henry Giffard's balloon, tethered at Paris.
Obverse: Scenic view of Paris with tethered balloon in foreground, over the words "Panorama de Paris 1876".
Reverse: "SOUVENIR DE MONS ASCENSION DANS LE GRAND BALLON CAPTIF A VAPEUR DE MR. HENRY GIFFARD" and the inscribed name of the passenger, "A. SAGET".
Circular: 2" (51mm) in diameter.
1885
Bronze medal struck for a meeting in France in 1885
Obverse: A seated female figure points to a dirigible overhead. Around the upper perimeter, the phrase; "SIC ITUR AD ASTRA" (Thus the way to the stars). In the exergue: "BALLOONS. DIRIGEABLES / CHALAIS MEUDON 1885".
Reverse:  In the center, Daedalus fasten s wings on Icarus. Around the upper perimeter " LABOR IMPROBUS OMNIA VINCIT" (Persistent labor conquerors all). At the base, the name of the sculptor; "A. Patey".
Circular:  2 13/16" (72mm) in diameter. The word "BRONZE " is engraved on the rim.
1894
Silver or silver colored medallion struck in Germany for an 1894 balloon flight.
Obverse: Shows balloon in flight among the clouds tethered to the ground at Dresden. There is a beading just inside the perimeter.
Reverse: Contains the legend: "ZUR / ERINNERUNG / AN DENAUFSTEIG / MIT LIEUT. LEMBRIERE / BALLOON / 'CAPTIV' / JNT. AUSSTELLUNG / DRESDEN / 1894". Has the same beading as th obverse ( In memory of the ascent with Lt. Lembriere in a captive balloon at the National Exhibition at Dresden).
Circular: 1 9/32" (34mm) in diameter with a link attachment at top.
1896-6-7
Bronze medal struck for Andree's 1896 Polar expedition.
Obverse: In center, profile in oval, top of globe and balloon. Also the name of the artist "AUG. HOGEL". In panel around the perimeter "ANDREES POLAR EXPEDITION FROM GOTEBORG DEN 7 JUNI 1893".
Reverse: Portrait in oval and sailing ship. In panel around perimeter "FRIDTHIOF NANSEN DRAN KRISTIANA DEN 24 JUNI 1893".
Circular: 2" (50mm) in diameter.
This medal is for Andree's first expedition, in the balloon "Virgo", which failed and was abandoned. It was on this attempt that he met Nansen who had left Christiana several years before. Andree make a second attempt in 1897, on which he lost his life.
1896-8-9
Cast bronze honoring Otto Lilienthal.
Obverse:  3/4 view head bust encircled by the name "OTTO LILIENTHAL" and the date of the crash, "9 AUGUST 1896" which resulted in his death on he following day. At the bottom, the name of the sculptor, "K. GOETZ".
Reverse:  Shows Lilienthal aloft in one of his biplane gliders, encircled by the information "DER ERSTE MENSHENFLUG DES GROSSTEN LEHRMEISTERS".
Circular:  3 3/4" (100mm).
Lilienthal was one of the most important of the pioneers of flight and an advocate of the learning by doing school. His book Bird Flight as the Basis of Aviation inspired all who came later.
1900
Bronze medal struck for the Paris Exposition of 1900.
Obverse: Seated figure of La Belle France, next to a rising sun bearing the date "1900". Around the upper perimeter, the legend "L'EXPOSITION DE PARIS". Also shows name of artist "CHARLES LE MAIRE".
Reverse: Shows various mechanical and scientific medals, including a motor-driven, steerable cigar-shaped airship. Has shield for inscription of a name.
Circular: 2 1/4" (54mm) in diameter.
1901-10-19
Bronze medal honoring Santos-Dumont's flight around the Eiffel Tower in his dirigible No. 6.
Obverse: Dumont's profile, a side view of his dirigible and the legends, "FREI BARTHOLOMEU DE GUSMAO SANTOS-BRAZIL 1685-1724. O VOADOR 8 DE AGOSTA DE 1709" and "SANTOS-DUMONT NASCEU NA SERRADO-MANTIQUEIRA-BRAZIL 20 DE JUCHO DE 1873".
Reverse: Female figure holding aloft a winner's branch as a dirigible passes the Eiffel Tower. At the top, the words "SANTOS-DUMONT No. 6. OUT UBRO 1901". At the bottom, the words "HOMENAGEM PACCLONIA BRASILEIRA DE PARIS" and the name of the artist "CH. PILLEL".
Circular: 2" (50mm) in diameter.
Commemorates the winning of the Deutsche prize for first craft to circle the Eiffel Tower, which the Brazillian born Santos-Dumont accomplished in his dirigible No. 6. The other legend carries the Portugese claim that Brother Bartholomeu Laurenco de Gusmao, born in Brazil, made the world's first glider in the form of a bird, called the PASSAROLA, which is supposed to have flown in Lisbon in 1709.
See 1959a for Passarola.
1903-10-7
Silver or silver color medallion struck in Germany in commemoration of the destruction of the Zeppelin L-2.
Obverse: In top center, shows a dirigible falling in flames. In the exergue, the legend, "UNTERGANG DER MARINE / LUFTSCHIFFES L2 / JOHANNISTAL / 17 OKT 1913" (Downfall of the marine airship L-2).
Reverse: Eagle spreads its wings over the body of a youth from whom flames ascend.
Circular: 1 9/32" (33mm) in diameter.
1903-12-17
Bronze medal struck in honor of the Wright brothers.
Obverse: Full face busts of Wilbur and Orville Wright with their names at the top.
Reverse:  Contains the legend "The Wright brothers who achieved man's first sustained flight in an engine driven heavier-than-air craft at Kill Devil Hill, Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, December 17, 1903".
Circular: 1 1/4" (32) in diameter
This medal is one of a series distributed to members of the Medal of the Month Club, although it does not so indicate. Much has been written about the Wright brothers. The two-volume Papers of Wilbur and Orville Wright by Marvin W, McFarland (McGraw-Hill 1953) is the finest account so far.
1903-12-17a
Fine silver proof medal struck for he Chase Commemorative Society in 1968, as a memorial tribute to the Wright Bothers. 
Obverse: In the center, a likeness of the first Wright flyer and under it the date of its first flight "1903". Around the perimeter at the top "THE WRIGHT BROTHERS" and at the bottom, "KITTY HAWK".
Reverse:  The center is divided into three sections and n them are a rocket, a helicopter and a four-engine jet transport. Around the perimeter, the legend: "FASTER * HIGHER. COMMERCE. NATIONAL DEFENSE. RECREATION". Also around the perimeter, in very small letters, the initials of the sculptor, "L.K." and "CCS.68". ( The sculptor was Louis King).
Circular:  1.5" (38cm) in diameter. The rim is milled.
This medal was privately struck for the members of the Chase Commemorative Society. This specimen has # 1532 engraved on the rim.
1903-12-17b
Silver medal honoring the Wright Brothers issued in October 1965 by the National Commemorative Society.
Obverse:  3/4 view busts facing left encircled by the data "THE WRIGHT BROTHERS WILBUR 1870-1912" and "ORVILLE 1871-1948" (their respective birth and death dates). Also shoes the name of the sculptor "A. Manca".
Reverse:  Shows plane in flight and the legend "FIRST FLIGHT KITTY HAWK N.C. DEC. 1903". Also shows initials "NCS 1965" and "3300".
Circular: 2 7/8" (62mm)in diameter, with milled rim on which appears the number "3300".
This is #3300 of a total of 5255 struck. First three were platinum, the rest were silver struck for members only and the dies subsequently destroyed. Dies cleaned every 1000: this is the first one struck with clean dies. The artist Albino Manca is the sculptor who produced the pieta medal sold at the Vatican pavilion at the New York World's Fair 1964/65.
2nd copy bears #3600 (DB)
1903-12-17c
Silver medal struck for the Hall of Fame at the New York University.
Obverse:  Left profile of Orville Wright superimposed on left profile of Wilbur Wright and beneath, their names and the dates of birth and death of each. Beneath the base of Orville's bust is the name of the artist "PAUL FJELDE SC '67".
Reverse:  A simplified representation of the original Wright Flyer in Flight, with the suggestion of the two jest planes headed toward the stars. Below are the mythological figures of Dadealus and Icarus with the latter , whose wings have been melted by the sun, about to fall into the sea. Around the perimeter, in a panel , is the information "THE HALL OF FAME FOR GREAT AMERICANS AT NEW YORK UNIVERSITY".
Circular: 1 3/4" (45mm) in diameter.
Medal is pure silver, marked on the rim as " .999+ MEDALLIC ART CO. NY". Wilbur was elected into the Hall of Fame in 1955. Orville was elected in 1965. Busts of the brothers were installed at a dedication ceremony on May 7, 1967. The medals were issued for public sale on that date. The same medal was also made in 3" (71mm) and 1 3/4" size in bronze.
Second copy is the 3" bronze. (U)
Third copy is 1 3/4" bronze. (I)
1903-12-17d
Third of the TWA "Milestones of Manned Flight" series, in proof-finish sterling silver, honoring the Wright Brothers.
Obverse:  Three-quarter busts over the names WILBUR AND ORVILLE WRIGHT
Reverse:  In the center, the first Wright Flyer, under the legend "FIRST POWERED FLIGHT" and over it the date of the flight, "DECEMBER 17, 1903".
Circular: 1.5" (40mm) in diameter. Rim is milled and shows the hallmark of the Birmingham Mint of England.
The same medals, in a oxidized silver finish, are being distributed to passengers on TWA flights as a promotional device. The series consists of Da Vinci, the Montgolfier Brothers, the Wright Brothers, Lindbergh, Earhardt, and Apollo 11. 9500 sets of the silver medal were minted.
1908
Medal in nickel honoring Count Zeppelin.
Obverse: Bust in center surrounded by words "GRAF FERD. V. ZEPPELIN. GEB. 1838".
Reverse: Zeppelin in flight over lake and hills and the date "1908".
Circular: 1 1/8" (29mm) in diameter. Has loop and ring.
1908-8-4
Aluminum token given to contributors who make it possible for Count Zeppelin to continue, after the loss of the Z4.
Obverse: Bust and name of "GRAF ZEPPELIN" under the words "ZIEL ERKANNT - KRAFT GESPANNT".
Reverse: The Z4 in flight against background of the Mainz Cathedral and the words
"GEPRAGT AUS DEN RESTEN DES LFTSCIFFS Z4 - 4-5 AUG. 1908 - DAUER - FAHRT FRIEDRICHSHAFEN - MAINZ 583 KLM".
Circular: 1 1/4" (32mm) in diameter.
The Z4 was to make a 24 hour long-distance flight as a condition to its acceptance by the German Military Dept. The ship made the flight successfully and then landed, to make an engine repair and to replenish gas and fuel. A storm came up unexpectedly, tore the ship away from its ground crew and it caught fire. While the airship was still burning, a man climbed on a table and urged the crowd that had assembled to contribute to a new airship. Newspapers published appeals and ample money poured in to enable the elderly Count to continue building his series of Zeppelins. These tokens were made from remnants of the Z4 and given to contributors to the fund.
1908-8-4a
Silver (.990 fine) medal struck for the proving flight of the Zeppelin Z4.
Obverse: Bust, 3/4 view, surrounded by caption "EXCELLENZ GRAF V. ZEPPELIN". Also shows the name of the artist "NUERNBERG".
Reverse: Shows Z4 in flight above the cathedral of Strassburg and the legend "UEBER STRASSBURG PROBEFAHRT 4-5 AUG. 1908". On the edge, the words "EIN GEDAECHTNISS THALER".
Circular: 15/16" (33mm) in diameter.
See 1908-8-4 for details of airship and flight.
1908-10-17
Silvered balloon medal with inscription in Spanish.
Obverse: Shows manned balloon, bearing name "PAMPERO" in flight. Also shows an illegible name that might be the name of the artist.
Reverse: Bird in flight with beak holding a scroll reading "EDUARDO NEWBERRY / SARGENTO / EDUARDO ROMERO / 17 OCTUBRE 1908".
Irregular: Maximum diameter 1 1/4" (30mm).
1909
Silver medal struck in honor of a Gordon Bennet balloon race at Zurich.
Obverse: Two men in basket of a balloon in fligh surrounded by the words "GORDON BENNET ZURICH GOGI".
Reverse: Cherub sitting on panel depicting balloons in flight over Zurich. Under the panel are the letters "SAER" and the artist's name "H. HUGUIN".
Circular: 1 9/16" (40mm) in diameter.
James Gordon Bennet, in addition to sponsoring the International Balloon Races bearing his name, offered trophies and cash prizes for many other balloon and airplane achievements. The above medal is for a flight at Zurich in 1909.
1909a
Medal in Bronze struck for military maneuvers in Germany in 1909.
Obverse: In the center the imperial German Coat of Arms. In a panel around the perimeter, the legend: "ZUR ERINNERUNG AN DAS KAISERMANOVER".
Reverse: A dirigible in the center, surrounded by four busts in circles: At the top "KAISER WILHELM"; at the lower right, "HERZOG ALBRECHT"; at bottom, "GRAF ZEPPLIN"; at lower left, "KONIG WILHELM".
Circular: 1 1/2" (39mm) in diameter.
1909-3-4
Bronze medal awarded by the U.S. Congress in recognition of the Wright Brothers' accomplishments in aviation.
Obverse:  Profiles of the brothers with their names and the words "Resolution of Congress March 4, 1909, In Recognition and Appreciation of their Ability. Courage and Success in Navigating the Air".
Reverse:  Figure in flight holding torch under the words "Shall mount up with wings as Eagles". (Quote from Isaiah 40:31)
Rectangular:  3 1/4" x 2 1/4".
According to Bishop Milton Wright's Diary, these special Congressional medals were presented to his sons at the Dayton Fair Grounds on June 17, 1909, by George James Allen (one of the first backers of military aviation). At the same time the Wrights were presented with an Ohio medal by the Governor and a city medal by the Mayor. The date of these honors refutes the sometimes asserted notion that the Wright Brothers were neglected by their countrymen.
1909-5-30
Bronze medal struck for early Zeppelin flight.
Obverse: In panel around perimeter, the name "GRAF FERDINAND VON ZEPPELIN" and inside it, a 3/4 front view bust of the Graf. Also shows name of artist "K GOETZ".
Reverse: Shows Zeppelin in flight toward the sun. At the bottom, a nude youth engraves the legend "FERNFAHRT / VON / FRIEDRICHS / HAFEN / NACH / NURNBERG / 30 AMI 1909" (Long distance flight from Friedrichshafen to Nuremberg).
Circular: 2 ½" (64mm) in diameter. Cast.
1909-6-10
Bronze medal struck in honor of the Wright Brothers.
Obverse:  Profiles facing left, with the information "WRIGHT/SEPT. 21, 1908/ LE MANS/ FRANCE and at the right, "O. WRIGHT/ SEPT. 9, 1908/ FORT MYER, VA./ U.S.A." In a semi-circle at the top "AERO CLUB OF AMERICA". Also whose name of the sculptor "V.D. BRENNER Sc."
Reverse: Shows a Wright plane and at the bottom, the seal of the Aero Club of America and the date of its formation "1905".
Circular: 3" (76mm) in diameter.
On June 10, 1909, at the White House, President Taft presented this medal in Gold to each of the Wright Brothers. The medals were struck at the Philadelphia mint and the funds were raised by public subscription fostered by the Aero Club. The information on the obverse is for the most successful flight of each- 62' 51" for Orville and 91' 51" for Wilbur, both World record flights. Bronze and silver were also struck.
1909-6-17
Silver color medal struck for Wright Brothers Dayton celebration.
Obverse: Plane in flight over profiles acing to the left and the names "W. WRIGHT" and "O. WRIGHT".
Reverse:  Plane and birds in flight around the perimeter the legend "WRIGHT BROTHERS HOME CELEBRATION DAYTON JUNE 17-18, 1909".
Circular: 1 1/4" (31mm) in diameter with loop attachment at top.
The success of the Wright Brothers in Europe induced Dayton "to give the fathers of flight their due" when they returned to Dayton fresh from these foreign conquests.
1909-6-17a
Bronze or brass medal struck for Wright Brothers.
Obverse: Profiles to left and the names "WILBUR" and "ORVILLE".
Reverse: Plane in flight and under it the legend "WRIGHT BROTHERS HOME CELEBRATION DAYTON JUNE 17-18, 1909".
Circular: 1" (25mm) in diameter with loop attachment at top.
1909-7
Bronze medal struck in honor of French Minister of Public Works in 1909.
Obverse:  Bust of Louis Berthou. At the bottom an airplane engine and the inscription "A MonsieurL. Barthou, Ministre Des Travaux Publics, En Souvenir De la Promotion De L'Aviation Juillet 1909". Also shows name of artist "T.Sirmai".
Reverse: Workers in a field looking up at two airplanes in flight over the rays of a sun marked "1909". At the lower right are the names "L. Bleriot, G. Voisin, L. Delagrange, E. Archdeacon, Mallet, A. Santo-Dumont, O. Wright, W. Wright, H. Farman.
Circular: 2"by 2 7/8" (60 by 73mm).
1909-7-25
Bronze medal celebrating Bleriot's flight across the English Channel.
Obverse:  Shows Bleriot monoplane with pilot over the Channel approaching the Cliff of Dover. At the bottom are the words "Victorieux des Elements" (Victorious over the elements). Also shows name of the artist "J. Desvergnes".
Reverse:  Eagle in flight.
Circular: 1 15/16" (50mm) in diameter.
Louis Bleriot flew a monoplane of his own design and construction from Baraques, France, over the Channel to Dover, England, in 37 minutes on July 25, 1909. This was the first aerial crossing of the channel by a heavier-than-air aircraft. Bleriot was born in 1872 and died in 1936.
1909-7-25a
Large bronze medal struck by the administration Des Monnaies et Medilles of France in honor of the 60th anniversary of Bleriot's flight across the channel.
Obverse:  Four- fifths view of head facing right, in helmet and goggles, to the left of the name, written vertically, "BLERIOT". Above Bleriot, in small letters, is the name of the artist "N. Duparc".
Reverse:  Large numbers of men and women near a cliff wave at a plane seen in the distance. At the upper left, in small script, is the date of the flight "25 Juilet 1909".
Circular: 5" 9126mm) in diameter. 
The metal appears to have been cast rather than struck.
1909-7-31
Bronze medal struck in Germany for a Zeppelin landing.
Obverse: In the center, a Zeppelin in flight. Above, "ERINNERUNG / AN DIE LANDUNG" and below, "DES AEPPELIN II / AM / 31 JULI 1909".
Reverse: Intertwined initials "J.L.A.".
Octagonal: 1 21/32" (42mm), height 1 13/16" (45mm), including slot for red and white ribbon.
1909-8-22
Aluminum token distributed at the air show at Reims, France, 1909.
Obverse:  Plane in fight and the words "GRAND CONCOURS D'AVATION REIM 1909".
Reverse: " GALERIES REMOISES - A GRANDISSEMENTS - SUPERFICIE DE PLUS DE 3000 METERS"
Circular: 1 7/16" (36mm) in diameter.
1909-9-1
Silver color medal struck for Air Meet in Frankfurt, Germany, in 1909.
Obverse: Balloon bearing the initials "ILA" in flight in clouds.
Reverse: The legend "ERINNERUNG AN DAS INTERNAITONALE WETTFLIEGEN FRANKFURT A/M 1 SEPT. 1909".
Octagonal: Width: 1 11/16" (42mm). Height: 1 3/4" (45mm) . Slot for inserting ribbon. On rim "C. Pollath".
See 1959-9-1 for 50th anniversary medal.
1909-9-1a
Bronze fob medal struck for early air meet.
Obverse: Dirigible balloon in the center of the legend "ERINNERUNG AN DIE MOTORBALLONFAHRT J. L. A. 1909".
Reverse: Intertwined initials "J. L. A."
Circular: Width: 1 11/16" (42mm). Height: 1 3/4" (45mm) . Slot for inserting ribbon. On rim "C. Pollath"and "Bronze".
1910
Gilded bronze medal struck for the Chicago Numismatic Society.
Obverse: Icarus against a background of planes, a dirigible and a balloon.
Reverse: Bird in flight over the words "PROGRESS IN AVIATION", "CHICAGO NUMISMATIC SOCIETY, MEDALLIC SERIES, MCMX".
Circular: 2" (51mm) in diameter.
1910a
Bronze medal struck for International aerial meet at Milan, Italy, in 1910.
Obverse:  "CIRCUITO AEREO INTERNAZIONALE MILANO 1910" written on a wing.
Reverse:  Planes in flight over a classic monument.
Circular:  1 3/16" (30mm) in diameter.
1910b
Lead type medal struck for meet at Nice, France.
Obverse:  Seal of the City of Nice and the date "AVRIL 1910" in the center. Around it, the legend " VILLE de NICE CONCOURS D'AVIATION"
Reverse: Shows monoplane in flight over the harbor of Nice.
Circular: 1 3/16" (31mm) in diameter. Has pierced loop at the top.
1910-3
White metal medal commemorating early flights in Florence, Italy.
Obverse:  Woman in flowing rope, looks at plane, two dirigibles and a balloon in flight over Florence. Shows name of artist "P. Masetti". 
Reverse: Man with wings pursued by eagles, under words "PRIMI ESPERIMENTI AVIAZIONE IN FIRENZE MARZO-APRILE 1910".
Circular: 2" (51mm) in diameter.
1910-9-13
Gilt medal struck for guest at 1910 Air Meet.
Obverse:  Biplane in flight in center. In panel around upper circumference, the legend "HARVARD & BOSTON AERO MEET. SEPT. 3-13". At bottom, the date "1910" is set in a pair of wings.
Reverse:  Blank except for the word "GILT" and the name of the striker "DIEGES & CLUST".
Circular: Oval 1" x 1" (42 x 40mm) with link attachment at top and ribbon, red and white vertically striped ending in a fancy form holding a card marked "GUEST" with a pin black.
This meet was held at Squantum, Mass. And large cash prizes were contended for by leading aviators, including Grahme White, Walter Brookins, Glen Curtiss, A. V. Roe, Charles V. Willard and Ralph Johnstone. In hindsight, the two main events were the bomb throwing contest at the outline of a battleship and sharp shooting from a plane against ground targets, and the Boston Globe paid a $10,000 prize for a race around Boston Light won by the Englishman Grahme White in a Bleriot. The event was organized by the Harvard Aeronautical Society.
1910-9-23
Silver medal struck to commemorate the first airplane flight over the Alps, by Chavez.
Obverse: Bleriot airplane in flight over the Alps.
Reverse: A bird in flight over the Alps. Above the bird is the date "le23 SEPTEMBRE 1910". Beneath are the words "CHAVEZ FRANCHIT (passes over) LES ALPES EN AEROPLANE". Also shows name of Artist "Hugugnin".
Circular: 1 9/16" (40mm) in diameter.
On 9-23-10, Georges Chavez, a young Peruvian, flew from Brig, Switzerland, over the Simplon Pass, to Domodossoin, Italy. He crashed on landing and died in the hospital from injuries suffered in the crash. His last words, "Higher, ever higher", have become the motto of the Peruvian Air Force. And Sept. 23 became National Aviation day in Peru.
An identical medal was struck in bronze.
1910-9-23a
Bronze medal struck for the 1910 crossing of the Alps. 
Obverse:  "SOUVENIR DE LA TRAVERSSE DES ALPES EN AEROPLANE BRIGUE-MILAN". Below the coats of arms of Italy and Switzerland and the date "SEPTEMBRE 1910".
Reverse: Planes in flight over the Alps. Also shows initials of artist "S. J."
Circular: 1 1/4 (31mm) in diameter. Has link attachment at the top.
Medal undoubtably commemorates the tragic flight of Georges Chavez from Brig to Domodossola. See 1910-9-23
1910-9-27
Silver colored medal struck in honor of Georges Chavez.
Obverse:  Full face bust surrounded by the words "AL AVIADOR PERUANO JORGES A. CHAVEZ" and the date of his death "27 DE SEPTEMBRE 1910".
Reverse: The words "LIGA PERUANO AVIACIONE-LIMA" around the seal of the league.
Circular: 7/8" (23mm ) in diameter.
See 1910-9-23 for information about Georges Chavez.
1910-10-8
Gold medal presented to the pilot who was the first to fly around Milan, Italy.
Obverse: Allegorical winged figure in flight and the words "l CIRCUITO AEREO MILANO". (1st aerial circuit of Milan).
Reverse: "AD EROS AUDACE AVIATORE PIEMONTESE" (To the hero Ruggerone, daring pilot from Piedmont). "CONCITTADINI AMICI AMMIRATORI OFFRONO" presented by his admiring "MILANO 8 OTTOBRE 1910". 
Shape: Decagonal 1 1/16 (27mm ) 
Germano Reuggerone was one of the earliest Italian pilots and had many firsts to his credit, not only in Italy but also in Brazil. He was a colonel in the Italian Air Force in World War I.
1910-10-17
Silver color medal honoring Vallon's flight over Neuchatel, France.
Obverse:  Early biplane in flight over a city.
Reverse: A few birds in flight and the legend " Le 17 Octobre 1910 L'AVIATEUR VALLON PASSE AU DESSUS SE LA VILLE DE NEUCHATEL"
Circular: 1 1.4" (33mm ) in diameter.
1910-10-23
Silver medal struck for 1910 air meet.
Obverse:  Curved wing tractor biplane flies directly into the sun. In panel around perimeter, the legend "INTERNATIONAL AVIATION TOURNAMENT 1910".
Reverse: Blank except of the name of striker "TIFFANY & COMPANY".
Circular: 1 1/8" (30mm) in diameter with link attachment and ring at the top.
This medal was probably struck for the international air meet held at the Belmont Park race course near Mineola, Long Island, New York, during the last week of October 1910. There were prizes aggregating nearly $75,000 for a number of speed and distance events. Similar meets took place at Los Angeles, Ca., Rheims, France, and Boston, Massachusetts, but the Belmont meet was the only one in which a representative number of English, French, and U.S. pilots participated and which made for a truly international tournament.
1910-12-17
Silver medal issued in Argentina in honor of the pioneer Italian pilot Cattaneo for his flights in Argentina.
Obverse:  Eagle and monoplane approaching each other in flight over the top of globe. Shows name of artist "A.M. Bolognin".
Reverse:  The legend "All' AQUILA CONTRASTANDO LE VIE DEI CIELI BARTOLOMEO CATTANEO RIAFFERMANA NELL' ARGENTINA L'ARDI- MENTO ITALICO" (To the eagle who defies the ways of the skies- Bartholomew Cattaneo - who reaffirms in Argentina Italian courage). Above are the coats of arms of Argentina and Italy and below is the front of an airplane and the words "BUENOS AIRES MCMX". On 12-17-10 he won a prize equivalent to $20,000 for flying 70 miles across the river La Plata from the Argentine side and back."
Circular:  2 3/16" (53mm) in diameter.
1911a
Lightweight, thin brass balloon medal.
Obverse: Shows balloon in the foreground and also one in the background midst clouds and over a city.
Reverse: Blank.
Circular: 2" (50mm) in diameter in concave shell form.
This was possible issued in connection with the Gordon Bennett International Balloon Race in 1911. The obverse shows the name of the artist but it is unintelligible.
1911c
Silver medal struck in France.
Obverse:  Youth with Musket and woman in robe seated on a cannon. At base, the words "PRO PATRIA" and around the upper border, the legend "SI VIS PACEM PARA BELLUM". At the lower right border, the name of the artist "P. Grandhomme."
Reverse: At bottom, a lion over the words, "FORCE-COURAGE". In panel around the border, the legend "ENTRAINMENT-PHYSIQUE - PREPARATION MILITAIRE". In the center, a vertical panel with the words "PRIX DU MINISTRE DE LA GUERRE". Around it, various implements of war, including air-plane. At lower right, in small letter, the name of the artist and the date "1911". On the rim, the word, "ARGENT".
Circular: 1 15/16" (50mm) in diameter
1911-3-19
Golden Bronze plaque issued in honor of an eminent French editor and cartographer.
Obverse:  Plane flying over the Seine and Eiffel Tower at Paris. At the bottom the words "LE GROUPE DE PARIS ANCIENS ELEVES DE L'ECOLE CENTRALE- A MONSIEUR CHARLES DELAGRAVE 19 MARS 1911".
Reverse: Figure representing science appears to three workers. Shows the name of artist "RENE BAUDICHON".
Rectangular:  52 x 65 mm with domed top.
1911-3-29
Bronze medal distributed at a dinner at the Hotel St. Regis in New York City on March 29, 1911, in honor of the third U.S.A. win of the J. Gordon Bennett International Balloon Race cup.
Obverse: The words "COUPE AERONAUTIQUE J. GORDON BENNETT" over a likeness of the trophy. Under it are the names of the winners beneath the caption "WON BY AERO CLUB OF AMERICA: FRANK P. LAHM 1906; EDGAR W. MIX 1909; ALAN R. HAWLEY 1910".
Reverse: Contains a menu of the dinner and he date and a place of holding same.
Rectangular: 2 9/16 x 3" (66 x 87mm) with domed top.
The first J. Gordon Bennett International race was held at Paris on September 30, 1906, and was won by Lieut. Frank P. Lahm, accompanied by major Henry B. Hershey: they traveled 410 miles in 22 hours, 17 minutes. In 1910 , Alan R. Hawley and Augustus Post won with a flight of 1171 miles in approximately 46 hours: they flew from St. Louis, Missouri, to a landing in the Province of Quebec.
1911-4-27
Bronze medal struck for distribution at the first annual meeting of The Aeronautical Society.
Obverse: Propeller and par of wings and the words "The Aeronautical Society".
Reverse: "First Annual Dinner of the Aeronautical Society Hotel Astor April 27th 1911".
Roughly circular with scalloped edges: 1½" (39mm) in diameter.
The Aeronautical Society of New York was a rival organization to the Aero Club. The Society, which had some extremely wealthy members, commissioned Glenn Curtiss to build a plane for it and to teach two of the members to fly it, for $5,000. The plane was the famous "Gold Bug", which established many records. Charles F. Willard was one of the members taught to fly. It was the latter's exploitation of the Gold Bug which prompted the Wrights to initiate their lawsuits against Curtiss and others for patent infringement which were to continue for many years.
1911-8-7
Bronze medal struck in honor of A. Leo Stevens.
Obverse: Profile right over the description "AERONAUT LEO STEVENS". At the top, the dates of Steven's birth and death "1876-1944". At the right, a balloon and the date "AUGUST 7, 1911".
Reverse: In the center a fanciful balloon symbol and around the circumference, the legend "AWARD OF THE A. LEO STEVENS MEMORIAL FUND". At the top, the name of the sculptor 'FREDERIC ALLEN WILLIAMS 1948".
Circular: 2 3/4 (70mm) in diameter. On the rim "MEDALLIC ART CO. N.Y. BRONZE".
Leo Stevens, of North Adams, Massachusetts, was one of the pioneers of American ballooning. He was a balloon builder, pilot, and navigator.
1911-9-11
Bronze medal cast for earliest military aviation in Germany.
Obverse:  Male figure holds propeller on top of globe while three eagles fly nearby. In panel around perimeter, is the legend "ERSTER FLUGZEUG EISATZ IM HEERESDIENST, 11 SEPT. 1911" (First airplane action in the service of the army). Also shows the name of artist "K. GOETZ".
Reverse: In center, dirigible emerges from its hanger and airplane stands in its tent. In exergue is stated "UNTER LEITUNG VON ING. P.R. GUTT" Under the command of engineer). In panel around perimeter "HALLEN UND ZELTAUFBAUTEN FUR FLUGGERATE IM KAISERMANOVER"(Hanger and tent erections for airplanes in the Emperor's manoeuvres.).
Circular: 3 3/4" (96mm) in diameter.
1911-9-17
Bronze medal struck for 1st circuit of Italy by air.
Obverse:  Eagle in flight over some Italian landmarks and the legend "ANNO SACRO AB ITALIA CONDITA QUINQUAGESIMO DIE ROMAE OCTO BONONIAM APPELLUNT HEROES LATINI DE CAELO" "G. PASCOLI". Also shows name of artist "G. HESSE".
Reverse: Panel set horizontally against background of fokiage bears legend "PRIMO CIRCUITO AEREO ITALIANO ORGANIZZATO DAL GIORNALES - IL RESTO DEL CARLINO - BOLOGNA- VENEZIA - RIMINI - BOLOGNA 17-18-19-20 SETTEMBRE 1911". 
Circular: 1 1/8 (30mm) in diameter, perimeter scalloped, with oval link attachment.
1912
Bronze medal given to admission-paying spectators at the 1912 Berlin Air Show. 
Obverse: "NATIONAL FLUGPENDE" (Air Show) and the date "1912".
Reverse: Shows eagle in flight.
Circular: 1 1/16" (28mm) in diameter.
1912-b
Bronze medal struck in Great Britain in 1912.
Obverse: Early monoplane and biplane in flight. Also shows name of striking company "VAUGHTON BIRM".
Reverse: In the center "1912 NATIONAL AERIAL CAMPAIGN". Around the perimeter, the legend "BRITAIN'S FUTURE IS IN THE AIR".
Circular: 1 1/4" (32mm) in diameter.
1912-3-24
Bronze plaque commemorating the world's first hydroplane meet at Monaco in 1912.
Obverse:  Scene with Monaco in the background and the words "MONTE CARLO SAISON 1911-1912". Also shoes name of the artist "T. SZIRMAI".
Reverse: Planes in flight and the words "1er MEETING DES AEROPLANES MARINS ORGANISE PAR L'INTERNAITONAL SPORTING CLUB MONACO 1912- M. TONY SZIRMAI SCULPTEUR". 
Rectangular with domed top 3 1/4" X 2 3/4" (83x70 mm).
It was this meet that prompted Jacques Schneider to announce the Schneider trophy for seaplanes. The event was organized by the International Sporting Club of Monaco.
1912-5-12
Bronze medal commemorating German reliability tour in 1912.
Obverse:  Outline of monoplane (Bleriot) in flight over mountains.
Reverse: A wreath containing the words "DEUTCHES ZUVERLASSICKEITS FLUG AM OBERRHEIN 12-22 MAI 1912" (German reliability flight at Oberrhein may, 12-22, 1912).
Circular: 1 15/16" (50mm) in diameter.
Reliability flights were popular in the years preceding World War I. The medal was distributed to the participants.
1912-6
Silver medal struck for the Austrian Aero Club.
Obverse:  Winged figure in flight over the words "WIEN (VIENNA) JUNI 1912". At the right border are the words "AERO CLUB" and at the left the name of the artist "K.K. Osterr".
Reverse: Shows an early monoplane in flight over Vienna.
Circular: 1 9.16" (40mm) in diameter.
1912-6-9
Bronze medal struck for the 1912 race from Berlin to Vienna for a prize of 11,000 marks.
Obverse: Pilot in open airplane in flight and the legend "1912 BERLIN WIEN".
Reverse: Blank except for wreath decoration around border.
Circular: 2 15/16" (75mm) in diameter.
Medal struck by Elsner & Co. of Berlin.
1913a
Bronze medal struck in 1913 to honor Austrian Aviation.
Obverse:  Plane in flight over landscape. At the top is the motto "VIRIBUS UNITIS" (with united strength).
Reverse: Crowned double eagle and the words "FUR DIE OSTERRLUFT FLOTTE" (for the Austrian air fleet). 
Circular: 2 13/16" (65mm) in diameter.
1913b
Bronze medal struck in honor of the organizer of the 1913 Monaco boat, auto, and airplane meet.
Obverse:  Winged figure in flight with hydro-airplanes over a speed boat. Insert of profile of M. Blanc. At the top the dates "1904" and "1913" and the motto "SIC ITUR AD ASTRA" (Thus they say to the stars). At the bottom is the name of the artist "S. Zirmai" and the date "1913".
Reverse: In the center are the words: " A CAMILLE BLANC CREATEUR DU PREMIER MEETING DE CANOTS, AUTOMOBILES ET HYDROAEROPLANES 1903-1913. SES COLLABORATEIRS DE DIX ANS ONT OFFERT ET SOUVENIR DE L'OEVRE IMPERISSABLE DE CIVILISATION ET DE PROGRES ACCOMPLIE PAR LUI A MONACO. EN 1904 LE CANOT-AUTOMOBILE ATTEINT 50 KILOMETRES A L'HEURE. EN 1913 IL ARRIVE A 80 KILOMETRES A L'HEURE. EN 1911 LE PREMIER HYDRO-AEROPLANES S'ENVOLE DE L'EAU. EN1912 ET 1913, PREMIER CONCOURS D'HYDRO-AEROPLANES". (To Camille Blanc, organizer of the first meet of hydro-airplanes, his associates of the past ten years have offered this momento of the imperishable work and progress accomplished by him at Monaco. In 1904, the motor boat reached a speed of 50 km an hour. In 1913, it did 80 km an hour. In 1911, the first hydro-airplane rose from the water. In 1912 and 1913 occurred the first hydro-airplane meets.) At the base are the words "AINSI LE MOTEUR A EXPLOSION QUITTANT LE SOL CONQUIT LA MER ETS'ELANA TRIOMPHANT DES FLOTS DENS LES AIRS" (Thus the internal combustion motor left the ground, conquered the sea, and then triumphantly defated from the waves into the air).
Oblong: 3"x 2 5/16" (76 x 58mm).
1913-1-19
Silver medal issued in Argentina in honor of the death of a pioneer military pilot.
Obverse:  Profile bust, with laurel leaves around border. At bottom, there is a name probably of the artist "Gottuzzo".
Reverse: In the center, the pilot's name and dates of birth and death "TENIENTE MANUAL FELIX ORIGONE 5 de ENERO de 1913". Around the border, the legend "HOMENAJE AL PRIMER MARTIR DE LA AVIACION MILITAR ARGENTINA" (Homage to the first martyr of Argentine military avaition).
Circular: 1" (35mm) in diameter, with scalloped edges and ring and link attachment at the top.
1913-1-25
Gold medal presented to a pioneer Peruvian pilot for introducing heavier-than air aviation in Peru.
Obverse:  Front 3/4 view of face and around it, the name "JUAN BIELOVUCIC" and "LIMA-1911".
Reverse: Bird in light holding small wreath, and the words "LA AVIACION REVOLUCIONARA AL MUNDO. L.P.A."
Circular: 19/32" (15mm) in diameter.
Biemovucic was one of the first Peruvian pilots. On January26, 1913, he flew a Hanriot monoplane over the Alps from Brig, Switzerland to Domodossola, Italy, a successful flight that brought him great acclaim.
1913-4-3
Bronze medal German-French relations prior to World War I.
Obverse:  A German eagle and French cock glare at each other over the words "ZXVI IN LUNEVILLE 3 APRIL 1913". Around the border are the phrases "PAR ICI C'EST LA TERRE FRANCAISE COMPRIS -SEHR RICHTIG ABER MEIN SCHIFF IST DEUTCHE BODEN, VERSTANDEN" (You understand, this is French soil - true, but the ship is German territory).
Reverse: Foot soldiers and cavalry in battle with dirigible and plane overhead. Around the upper border, the words "VIVE LA POLITESSE FRANCAISE" (Long live the good breeding of the French).
Circular: 2" (50mm) in diameter.
A German dirigible accidentally landed at Luneville, France, and the incident inspired the medal.
1913-5-10
Bronze medal struck for the Prince Heinrich flight through Germany in 1913.
Obverse: Shows pilot in flight in monoplane.
Reverse: In the center the words "PRINZE HEINRICH FLUG 1913. 10-17 MAI", surrounded by the seals of and names of cities visited "COBLENZ, CARLSRUHE, STRASSBURG, POSEN, WIESBADEN, CASSEL".
Circular: 1 31/32" (49mm) in diameter.
1913-5-29
Bronze medal struck in Italy.
Obverse: Dirigible type balloon marked "P5" in flight over Rome, with coliseum in foreground.
Reverse: Contains date "29 MAGGIO 1913" and legend "SURSUM ITALICA FATA".
Circular: 1" (25mm) in diameter.
1913-7-8
Cast bronze medal commemorating Count von Zeppelin's 75th birthday.
Obverse: 3/4 view head in cap, encircled by the information "FERDINAND GRAF V. ZEPPELIN". There is a decorative design around the circumference.
Reverse: Shows Zeppelin's coat of arms, two children flying toy balloons and a dirigible in te background. At the top, the information "ZUM 75 GEBURTSTAG 8 VII 1913".
Circular: 2½" (65mm) in diameter.
The artist, whose name does not appear on the medal, was Karl Goetz. Kienast lists the medal as Opus 51.
1913-8-30
Bronze medal struck in honor of 1913 flight around Berlin.
Obverse:  Profile bust of a woman.
Reverse: Eagle on rock against background of a city, with monoplane and biplane in the sky. Around the border are the words "FLUG RUND UM BERLIN 1913" (Circular flight around Berlin).
Circular: 2" (50mm) in diameter.
1913-1914
Bronze medal struck for the International Sporting Club for the 1913/1914 Monaco Air Meet.
Obverse:  View of the Royal Palace at Monte-Carlo with two planes in flight. At the base is the description "INTERNATIONAL SPORTING CLUB SAISON 1913-1914". Also shows name of artist "Szirmai".
Reverse: Winged female figure in flight, holding plaque reading "M. HEAN HERCK INGENIEUR DE LA MARINE AERODOME ST. RAPHAEL". Around the border are the words "RALLYE AERIEN DE MONACO".
Circular: 2 7/16" (63mm) in diameter.
1914
Silver medal struck in Germany in commemoration of Zeppelin participation in World War I.
Obverse: 3/4 front view bust of the most successful dirigible builder. Around the perimeter, the name: "GRAF FERD. V. ZEPPELIN".
Reverse: In center shows a Zeppelin aloft over the front line trenches. Around the perimeter, the legend: "UNSER ZEPPELIN IN TATIGKEIT IM FELDZUG 1914".
Circular: 1 9/32" (33mm) in diameter.
1914a
Bronze German medal.
Obverse:  Two eagles and nude male figure on top of the globe supporting biplane in his hands. Around the circumference, the legend "NATIONAL FLUGSPENDE". Also shows the initials of the artist "K.G." (Karl Goetz).
Reverse: Eagle holding propeller in talons over two cornucopias and the date "1914".
Circular: 3 ½" (82mm) in diameter.
1914b
Silver (.990 fine) medal struck in Germany early in World War I.
Obverse: Profile bust facing right surrounded by legend "PROF. DR. RAUSENBERGER DER SCHOPFER DES 42 CM MORSERS" (builder of 42 centimeter mortars). Also shows name of artist "ZIEGLER".
Reverse: Shows canon muzzle and two Zeppelins taking part in the bombardment of Antwerp. Around the perimeter, the legend "BESCHIESSUNG VON ANTWERPEN DURCH UNSERE 42 CM MORSER".
Circular: 1" (35mm) in diameter.
1914c
Silver color World War I propaganda medal.
Obverse: Naked figure of death on a horse, riding over crops, and the words "NACH PARIS" and the date "1914".
Reverse: In a border around the perimeter, the legend "GOETHE -THE PRUSSIAN IS CRUEL BY BIRTH. CIVILIZATION WILL MAKE HIM FEROCIOUS". In the center the words "LOUVAIN THE LUSITANIA EDITH CAVELL EARL KITCHNER THE ZEPPELIN VICTIMS".
Circular: 1" (35mm) in diameter.
This is one of the many propaganda medals struck early in World War I, emphasizing German atrocities, to build up war sentiment, chiefly in neutral countries.
1914-1-1
Brass finish medal commemorating the 40th anniversary of the world's first scheduled airline.
Obverse:  Sketch of an early flying boat and of the sun, with the words "ST. PETERSBURG TAMPA AIRBOAT LINE JAN.-APRIL 1914".
Reverse: "WORLD'S FIRST SCHEDULED AIRLINE 40 ANNIVERSARY ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA DEC. 4, 1953 Good Luck".
Circular: 1 1/4" (32mm) in diameter.
On January1, 1914, the Benoist Company inaugurated the first scheduled transportation of passengers and cargo. It operated two daily round trip flights between Tampa and St. Petersburg, Florida, a distance of about 25 miles as flown. The airline's sole pilot was Tony Jannus and its sole craft a Benoist flying boat. Its schedule was maintained without a break for 28 days. The total operation lasted about four months.
1914-1-1a
Bronze medal struck for the golden anniversary in 1964 of the world's first scheduled airline.
Obverse:  Vertical propeller in center. At left, "1914" and a biplane in flight over its name "BENOIST AIRBOAT". At right, "1964" and he legend "WORLD'S FIRST SCHEDULED AIRLINE SERVICE".
Reverse: Tony Janus is the plane's cockpit over the legend "First Passengers Jan. 1, 1914 First Air Express Jan. 12, 1914". In border around the perimeter "ST PETERSBURG-TAMPA" "TONY JANUS, PILOT". Also shows the name of the artist, "Ruth Hook".
Circular: 2½" (63mm) in diameter.
The medal was issued by Treasureland Medallions, a new Florida firm formed to distribute medals. 4,000 copies of this one were struck and are for sale to the public. The St. Petersburg-Tampa Airboat Line operated between those two cities from January to April 1914. See also 1914-1-1.
1914-4
Bronze medal struck for 1914 cross-country flight.
Obverse:  Pilots head between wings in flight. At upper left and both lower corners are views of Prague, Vienna, and Budapest, respectively. At the bottom, a legend reads "RENDFLUG DURCH OESTERREICH-UNGARN UM DEN SCHICHT PREIS ARRIL 1914".
Reverse: Blank.
Circular: 1 31/32 x 1 ½ (50 x 38mm)
1914-4-30
Bronze medal of the French National Aerial League.
Obverse:  Profile of woman's head with winged cap. Faint outline of plane at lower left. Shows name of artist "LEONE ALLOY".
Reverse: Bird in flight under the words "LIGUE NATIONALE AERIENNE" and over the inscription "LEON DUBLED 30 Avril 1914" and a propeller.
Circular: 1 31/32" (50mm) in diameter.
1914-5-17
Bronze medal struck for the Prince Heinrich flight through Germany in 1914.
Obverse:  Eagle with outstretched wings and the date "17-25 MAI", over a tablet bearing the words "PRINZE HEINRICH FLUG 1914" and the name of the 90 cities visited.
Reverse: Profile of Prince Heinrich and a facsimile of his signature.
Circular: 2 1/8" x 3 1/4".On the bottom edge is the fabricator's name "H.H. SAYERS PFORZHEIM".
1914-8-7
Silver (.800 fine) medal commemorating General Otto von Emmich's capture of he Belgian fortress Luttich.
Obverse: 3/4 front bust and the name "GENERAL v. EMMICH" and the artist's name, "R. KUCHLER".
Reverse: Shows armed figure of war setting fire to a fortress with a dirigible in the background. Above is the name "LUTTICH" and below, the date "7.8.14". Also shows the name "GRUNTHAL".
Circular: 1" (35mm) in diameter.
General Otto v. Emmich commanded the X German Army Corps on the outbreak of World War I. He stormed and took the Belgian fortress on August 7, 1914. This capture of a key point rendered the invasion of Belgium a simple military matter.
1914-8-17
Bronze medal commemorating 50 years of military aviation in Australia.
Obverse:  Shows early monoplane and modern jet, marked respectively "1914" and "1964". Around the upper perimeter is the legend "FIFTY YEARS OF MILITARY FLYING". At the bottom, in small letters "KGL, MELB.".
Reverse: In center a crest bearing the designation "AIR FORCE ASSOCIATION". Around the perimeter, the legend "STRUCK BY THE AIR FORCE ASSOCIATION".
Circular: 1½" (39mm) in diameter.
Military aviation in Australia commenced with the first course of war flying instruction which began August 17, 1914, at a Central Flying School established at Point Cook, near Melbourne (Cutlack Australian Flying Corps.). According to L. L. Barton, a new South Wales dealer, 10 of these medals were struck in silver and 150 in bronze.
1914-1915
Silvered bronze plaque struck in honor of a French World War I pilot.
Obverse:  A wreath enclosed circle showing a French monoplane bearing on its side the name "Le Vengeur", in flight over a German plane. Circle also contains the words"LE VENGEUR". Under the circle , a plaque bearing the legend "AU LIEUTENANT E. GILBERT, AVITEUR, 1914-1915".
Reverse: At the bottom, a rectangle with the words "LE PRESIDENT DE LA FEDERATION A. VILARET". Above, the legend "OFFERT par la FEDERATION DES ORIGINAIRES DU PLATEAU CENTRAL - - LES PRESIDENTS D'HONNEUR Mr. LOUIS PEUCH DEPUTE, ANCIEN MINISTRE., MR. L. PEUCH VICE PRESIDENT DU CONSEIL MUNICIPAL., MR. C. BIRON, MAIRE ADJOINT DU 3D ARR.".
Circular: 1 13/16 x 2" (46x60mm).
Gilbert, Garros, and Pegoud, French pioneer pilots, were responsible for the improvements that made the Nieuport a sound fighter. Gilbert was killed in a aerial accident on May 17, 1918.
1914-1915a
Silver (.990 fine) medal honoring Count Zeppelin in the early days of World War I.
Obverse: Bust and the name "EXCELLENZ GRAFT FERD. VON ZEPPELIN".
Reverse: A Zeppelin flying over war ships and the text "DEUTSCHE FLOTTEN, DEUTSCHES SCHWART BESCHUTZEN UNSERN HEIMATHERD 1914/15". (German ships, German swords, preserve our nation).
Circular: 1 5/16" (33mm) in diameter.
1915a
Bronze medal for Italian hydroplane squadron in Italy-Austria war in 1915.
Obverse:  Flying boat in flight over words "GUERRA ITALO-AUSTRIACA MCMXV".
Reverse: Eagle in flight over words "2 SQUADRIGLIA IDROVOLANTI".
Circular: Irregular, 1 x 1" ( 25 x 25mm) maximum. Has link attachment at top.
1915b
Pewter composition medal struck for a World War I aerial attack on a submarine.
Obverse:  Profile bust facing right, surrounded by the name "ERZHERZOG THRONFLOGER CAPT. FRANZ JOSEF". At the bottom of the bust the name of the artist "WEINBERGER".
Reverse:  Shows monoplane attacking a surfaced submarine.
Circular: 1 31.32 (50mm) in diameter.
1915c
French Air Force Service Medal in Bronze.
Obverse:  Irregularly shaped cross with profile and the words "REPUBLIQUE FRANCAISE" in a superimposed diamond shape At top is winged attachment for ribbon.
Reverse: On the diamond are the words "SERVICES MILITAIRES VOLANTAIRES". 
Dimensions: Maximum width 1 11/32" (35mm). Ribbon is dark blue with cerise colored center vertical stripe.
1915-7
Bronze medal struck in honor of an early World War I French pilot.
Obverse:  Full face with the name "ADOLPHE PEGOUD" and the years of his birth and death "1889-1915". Also shows the name of the artist "J. P. Legastelois".
Reverse: French woman with musket standing in front of an early biplane, surrounded by words "AU HEROS NATIONAL LA PATRIE RECONNAISSANTE" (The country recognizes its national heros).
Circular: 1" (41mm) in diameter.
Pegoud was a French pilot who was probably the world's greatest acrobat pilot prior to World War I. His repertoire in a Bleriot monoplane included inside and outside loops and half rolls. He had six victories in World War I before he was killed in the summer of 1915 in an air duel with the German Kandulaki.
1915-7-13
Bronze medal struck for the Panama-Pacific Exposition at San Francisco.
Obverse: Inside a laurel wreath is the information "AERO CLUB/ OF / AMERICA/ JULY 13/ 1915".
Reverse: "IN/ COMMEMORATION/ PANAMA-PACIFIC/ INTERNATIONAL / EXPOSITION/ SAN FRANCISCO".
Circular: 3" (75mm)in diameter.
1915-8-17
Silver medal struck for Zeppelin attack on London in World War I.
Obverse: Zeppelin just passed over London Bridge. Second Zeppelin in background. In exergue, the legend "LUFTANGRIFF AUF LONDON 17, 18. 8, 1915".
Reverse: Reverse shows the name "GRAF ZEPPELIN" encircling his 3/4 view head bust. Also shows name of artist "F. EUE".
Circular: 1 5/16" (34mm) in diameter.
This medal appears to have been struck for the attack of the L. 10, L. 11, and L. 14. Referred to in Morris, German Air Raids on Great Britain 1914-1918, pp. 51 seq.
1916-2-2
Pewter-like medal struck in honor of Demeter Konjovic.
Obverse: Three-quartered view bust surrounded by words "K.U. K. LESCHLT. DEMETER KONJOVIC".
Reverse: Two flying boats and a plane going down in flames.
Circular: 1 15/16" (49mm) in diameter.
Konjovic was a pilot in the Austrian Navy during World War I. On February 2, 1916, Konjovic and two other pilots dropped bombs on enemy shipping at Valona, Albania. One of the planes was shot down. While under fire from shore batteries and a destroyer, Konjovic landed and rescued the swimming crew of the drowned plane. The medal seems to have been struck in honor of this feat, particularly since his name does not appear in the list of Austrian aces.
1916-4-7
Bronze medal struck in Italy during World War I.
Obverse: Winged feminine figure stands on globe, with a wreath in each hand over various aircraft in flight.
Reverse: Propeller and six cylinder engine horizontally in center and the legend "SCONTRI AEREI (Aerial battle) 7-4-1916". "MEDEUZZA CORTELLO 1st SQUARDRIGLIA NIEUPORT".
Circular: 1" (25mm) with link attachment.
1916-4-7a
Bronze medal struck in Italy during World War I.
Obverse: Winged feminine figure stands on globe with a wreath in each hand over aircraft in flight.
Reverse: Shows engine and propeller against background of buildings and the name "CAMPO DI AVIAZIONE S. GIUSTO" (San Guisto, Trieste)
Circular: 1" (25mm) in diameter with link attachment. Date on obverse.
1916-4-7b
Bronze medal struck in Italy in World War I. 
Obverse: Shows winged lion which is the symbol of Venice against backgrounds of the city and the words "IDROVILANTI VENEIA" (Venetian seaplane squadron). 
Reverse: Eagle in flight about to drop bomb and the legend "PIU ALTRO, PIU OLTRE" (Higher and further).
Circular: With link attachment, 13/16" (21mm) in diameter.
1916-4-7c
Bronze medal struck in Italy during World War I. 
Obverse:  Crossed Italian and untitled United States Flags and the legend "CAMPO SCUOLA AVIATORI FOGGIA OUEST".
Reverse: Shows an eagle in flight.
Circular: 15/16" (23mm) in diameter.
1916-4-7d
Bronze medal struck in Italy, probably during World War I.
Obverse: Winged composite horse-man figure in flight over legend "EX ALTO AD SIGNUM".
Reverse: Propeller against background of grape vines at top and around the lower perimeter, the words "AVIAZIONE DA BOMBARDAMENTO".
Circular: Slightly irregularly circular. 1 1/16" (28mm) in diameter with link attachment.
1916-4-7e
Bronze medal struck in Italy, probably during World War I.
Obverse: Head of eagle in flight.
Reverse: Propeller and engine at bottom and at top, the words "SCUOLA CACCIA" (fighter school).
Circular: 1" (25mm) in diameter with link attachment.
1916-4-7f
Bronze medal struck in Italy, probably during World War I.
Obverse: Stork in flight over stylized anchor. Around the perimeter, the legend "ALTAM SUPRA-VOLATARDEA-NUBEM".
Reverse: Propeller and engine at top. In center, the legend "83d GRUPPO IDROVOLANTI-AUGUSTA" (Augusta was a Sicilian seaplane group).
Circular: 1" (25mm) in diameter with link attachment.
1916-4-7g
Bronze and enamel medal, probably struck in Italy during World War I.
Obverse: Eagle in flight. In blue enameled panel around perimeter, the words "III ZONA AEREA".
Reverse: Propeller and engine, that indicates the approximate date of the medal.
Circular: 1 1/8" (28mm) in diameter with link attachment.
1916-4-17h
Italian medal struck in World War I
Obverse: Shows broken German plane falling in flames. There is a caption "CACCIATORI DEL GRAPPA".
Reverse: Shows three biplanes in acrobatic flight and the legend "VI GRUPPO AEROPLANI 76 81 SQUADRIGLIA".
Circular: 1 1/32" (26mm) slightly scalloped and with link attachment.
1916-6-18
Pewter-like medal struck in honor on Max Immelman, World War I German Ace.
Obverse: Full face bust of Immelman, showing his family name and the name of the artist, R, Bachmann.
Reverse: Shows two eagles approaching each other head-on.
Circular: 1 15/16" (49mm) in diameter.
Max Immelman was the foremost German fighter pilot in 1915, and was known as the "Eagle of Lille". He fell to his death on June, 18, 1916. There has always been a question whether he was shot down or his plane disintegrated in the air. He evolved the Immelman turn--a maneuver at the top of a loop that simultaneously gained height and reversed direction.
1916-6-18a
Silver (990 parts fine) medal struck in honor of Max Immelman.
Obverse: Three-quarter view head and chest ans the signature "M. IMMELMAN". Also bears the artist's initials "BHM" and the mark ".990".
Reverse: German war plane (probably the Fokker) in flight over a propeller supported by two eagles and the legend "1914-1916 WO MUT AND KRAFT IN DEUTSCHE SEELE FLAMMEN". (Where strength and courage flame in the German soul).
Circular: 1 9/16" (40mm) in diameter.
See 1916-6-18 for details.
1916-6-18b
Bronze medal struck in honor of Max Immelman, World War I German ace.
Obverse: Profile bust and the name "MAX IMMELMAN".
Reverse: Eagle in flight carrying male figure holding lightening bolts poised in raised left hand. Shows name of artist "Else Furst".
Circular:  3 1/8" (80mm) in diameter.
1916-6-18c
Sterling Silver medal struck in honor of Max Immelman.
Obverse: Profile and to its left "MAX IMMELMAN".
Reverse: Depicts eagle in flight over a river under the caption "DER ALDER VON LILLE".
Circular: 1 5/16" (33mm) in diameter.
See 1916-6-18 for biographical note.
1916-6-18d
Silver medal honoring Max Immelman.
Obverse: Profile to the right and the words "OBERLEUTNANT MAX IMMELMAN". Also shows the name of the artist "F. EUE".
Reverse: Eagle perched on rock overlooking the City of Lille and the legend "DER ADLER VON LILLE 1914-16".
Circular: 1" (35mm) in diameter.
See 1916-6-18 for biographical note.
1916-7-21
Bronze medal struck in honor of a pioneer French pilot killed in World War I.
Obverse: Profile over the name "Marcel Dubois". Shows the name of artist "J.P. Legastelois".
Reverse: Wings and propeller and two military decorations over the words "MARCEL DUBOIS, NE LE 8 SEPTEMBRE 1883, INGENIEUR AU CORPS DES MINES, CAPITAINE PILOTE, COMMANDANT UNE ESCADRILLE D'ARMEE, TUE DANS UN COMBATAERIEN AU DESSUS DES LIGNES ENNEMIES PRES DE ROYE (SOMME) LE 21 JUILLET 1916" (Marcel Dubois, born 9-8-83, army engineering corps, captain pilot, commander of a escadrille, killed in aerial combat over enemy lines in the vicinity of Roye on 7-21-16).
Circular: Roughly rectangular with domed top. Maximum height 2 1/16" (54mm), width 1½" (38mm).
Dubois was a pre-World War I civilian pilot. He drowned one German plane before his fatal flight.
1916-10-28
Pewter-like medal struck in honor of Bolcke, World War I German ace.
Obverse:  Full face bust of Oswald Bolcke (sometimes spelled Belcke) wearing a "POIR LE MERITE" with the single word "BOLCKE" and the artist's name "R. BACHMANN".
Reverse: Monoplane in flight - probably a Fokker E1 or E11, in which Bolcke scored some of his early victories.
Circular: 1 15/16 (49mm) diameter.
Bolcke was one of the great German aces of early World War I. He was not only a successful pilot but a brilliant organizer and tactician. After scoring 40 victories, he was killed in a flying accident on October 28, 1916.
1916-10-28a
Silver medal struck in honor of Bolcke, one of Germany's World War I flying aces.
Obverse:  Profile head surrounded by words "OSWALD Bolcke" and the date of his death "28 OKTOBER 1916". Under the bust is the name of the artist "K. GOETZ".
Reverse: Monoplane in flight, with eagle and winged female figure. Around the border are the words "KEMPF IN DEN LUFTEN" (Aerial Battle).
Circular: 1 7/16" (36mm) in diameter.
See comment under 1916-10-28
1916-10-28b
Silver medal struck in honor of World War I German ace, Oswald Bolcke.
Obverse:  Bust and laurel spray under the name "OBERLEUTENANT BOLCKE".
Reverse: German plane in flight over propeller supported by two eagles and the legend "1914-1916 WO MUT UND KRAFT IN DEUTCHE SEELE FLAMMEN".
Circular: 1 9/16" (40mm) in diameter.
(The reverse is the same as the reverse of a medal honoring Max Immelman. See 1916-6-18a.) Also in Silver 2" (60mm).
1916-10-28c
Bronze medal struck in 1916 on Bolcke's death.
Obverse:  Helmeted profile surrounded by words "OSWALD Bolcke MCMXVI".
Reverse: Bird dancing on flames, under the words "PRO PATRIA".
Circular: 2" (60mm) in diameter.
See 1916-10-28
1916-10-28d
Silver medal commemorating Bolcke's death.
Obverse:  Three-quarter head and the words "HAUPTAM Bolcke".
Reverse: Warrior in a toga placed laurel spray at base of headstone, marked "28 OCTOBER 1918".
Circular: 1" (34.5mm) in diameter.
See 1916-10-28.
1916-10-28e
Silver ( 990 parts fine) medal commemorating Bolcke's death.
Obverse:  Profile facing to right and at the left, the name "BOLCKE". At the base, the name of the artist "FRZ. EUE".
Reverse: Figure of Germania is placing a wreath on a couched lifeless figure. Shows the date "28.10.1916" and around the upper perimeter, the legend "DEUTCHELAND'S SIEG RWICHTER HELD IM LUFTKAMPK" (Germany's victorious hero in air battle).
Circular: 1 5/16" (33mm) in diameter.
1916-10-28f
Silver (990 parts fine) struck in Bolcke's honor.
Obverse:  Profile facing to left and at its right , the name "OSWALD BOLCKE". At the base, the name of the artist "F. EUE".
Reverse: Shows planes engaged in battle and around the perimeter, the legend "DEUTSCHER HELDEN MUT IN DEN LUFTEN" (German Heroism in the air).
Circular: 1 5/16" (33mm) in diameter.
1917
Silver color shield shaped medal.
Obverse:  Soaring eagle in flight above old type heavily strutted biplane flying boat in flight among clouds. Below plane, the date "1917". In panel at the bottom, the title "NATIONAL SPECIAL AID SOCIETY".
Reverse: The legend "I PLEDGE MYSELF / TO HELP / THE WINGS OF THE U.S.". Also shows name "Robbins & Co. Attleboro".
Shield-shape, with lug attachment. Maximum width 31/32" 924mm), maximum height 1 1/8" (28mm).
1917-9-11
Bronze medal struck as a memorial to Georges Guynemer, second ranking World War I ace, with 54 accredited victories.
Obverse:  Profile bust showing many decorations and framed by the words "Capitaine Georges Guynemer" and the years of his birth and death "1894-1917".
Reverse: Flying storks (Cigognes were the symbol and name of his flight group) and a winged figure holding a plaque reading "36me. CITATION A L'ORDE DE L'ARMEE DU CAPITAINE GUYNEMER GEORGES, HEROS LEGENDAIRE, TOME EN PLAIN CIEL DE GLOIRE APRES TROIS DE LUTTE ARDENTE. RESTERA LE PLUS PUR SYMBOLE DES QUALITIS DE LA RACE, TENACITY INDOMPTABLE, ENERGIE FAROUCHE, COURAGE SUBLIME; ANIME DE LA FOI LA PLUS INEMBRANLABLE DANS LA VICTOIRE, IL LEGUE AU SOLDAT FRANCAIS UN SOUVENIR IMPERISSABLE QUI EXALTERA L'ESPRIT DE SACRIFICE ET LES PLUS NOBLE EMULATIONS" (36th Army Citation of the Captain Georges Guynemer, legendary hero, fallen in glory from the sky after three years of fierce struggle. He will remain the purest symbol of the qualities of his race indomitable tenacity, ferocious energy, sublime courage; animated by the most resolute faith in victory, he bequeaths to the French soldier an imperishable memory that will exalt the spirit of sacrifice and the most noble emulations). There also appears the name of the artist "J.P. Legastelois".
Circular: 2 5/8" (68mm) in diameter.
Georges Marie Ludovic Jules Guynemer was born 12-24-1894. He was frail and was admitted as a pupil-mechanic at the Pau aerodome only after two earlier rejections. On March 10, 1915, he started flight training and on July 19 scored his first victory. Despite ill health, he drove himself relentlessly. He was shot down 7 times. On 9-11-1917, after 54 victories, he took off on patrol and no trace was ever found of him or his machine.
1917-9-11a
Bronze medal struck as a medal to Georges Guynemer.
Obverse:  Profile bust showing many decorations and framed by the nem "CAPITAINE GEORGES GUYNEMER" and the years of his birth and death "1894-1917".
Reverse: Flying storks and a winged figure holding a plaque reading: "A CAPITAINE GUYNEMER GEORGES, HEROS LEGENDAIRE, TOME EN PLAIN CIEL DE GLOIRE APRES TROIS AND DE LUTTE ARDENTE. RESTERA LE PLUS PUR SYMBOLE DES QUALITIS DE LA RACE, TENACITY INDOMPTABLE, ENERGIE FAROUCHE, COURAGE SUBLIME" (36th Army Citation of the Captain Georges Guynemer, legendary hero, fallen in glory from the sky after three years of fierce struggle. He will remain the purest symbol of the qualities of his race, indomitable tenacity, ferocious energy, sublime courage). There also appears the name of the artist "J.P. Legeastelois".
Circular: 1 9/16" (40mm) in diameter.
Similar to, but not the same as the larger medal, 1917-9-11. See comments under 1917-9-11.
1917-9-11b
Bronze medal struck as a memorial to Geroges Guynemer.
Obverse : Profile surrounded by words "CAPTITAINE PILOTE GUYNEMER". There also appears the name of the artist "L. BARILLET".
Reverse: Stork in flight over the words " Cdt. L'ESCADRILLE N 3 MORT AU CHAMP D'HONNEUR LE 11 SEPTE 1917. HEROS LEGENDAIRE, TOME EN PLAIN CIEL DE GLOIRE APRES TROIS AND DE LUTTE ARDENTE. RESTERA LE PLUS PUR SYMBOLE DES QUALITIS DE LA RACE, TENACITY INDOMPTABLE, ENERGIE FAROUCHE, COURAGE SUBLIME" (Commander of Escadrille N3, died on the field of honor on September 11, 1917. Legendary hero, fallen in glory from the sky after three years of fierce struggle. He will remain the purest symbol of the qualities of his race, indomitable tenacity, ferocious energy, sublime courage). Underneath are the words "ORDRE DU 16 OCT. 1917.".
Circular: 2" (50mm) in diameter.
See comments under 1917-9-11.
1917-9-11c
Bronze medal struck in honor of Georges Guynemer.
Obverse: Profile bust of the famous World War I French ace, with the Cathedrals of Paris and Reims in the background. Also shows name of artist "Tairac".
Reverse: Sword against a laurel branch and a sun burst with the words "DEBOUT LA FRANCE (Arouse yourself, France)".
Circular: 1 1/16" (27mm) in diameter.
See 1917-9-11 for biographical details.
1917-9-12
Military Cross-Britain. Silver medal awarded by Great Britain to Warrant Officers, 1st and 2d Lieutenants and Captains for bravery and resource under fire. It was instituted in 1914.
Obverse: Slender limbed cross with Imperial cypher GRI in center and Imperial crown at the extremity of each limb.
Reverse: Inscription "CAPTAIN S. K. MUIR NO. 1 SQUADRON, AUSTRALIAN FLYING CORPS".
Size: Cross with 1 3/4" long limbs. Ribbon is watered white silk with wide purple stripe running vertically in the center.
S.K. Muir, who transferred to the Australian Flying Corps. From the Australian Light Horse, won the MC by engaging in a number of bombing and fighter actions against the Turks in 1916 and 1917. He generally flew a Martinsyde. He was killed in action on September 12, 1917 (details in Official History of Australian Flying Corps.).
1918
Brass medal struck in honor of Gianni Caproni.
Obverse: Outline of tri-plane bomber in flight over the Alps under the single words "CAPRONI".
Reverse: Blank.
Circular: 1 11/16" (43mm) in diameter.
The Italian Caproni was one of the pioneer designers of large bombing airplanes. He produced a biplane with three motors as early as 1914. The most spectacular of his bombers was the triplane CA. 41, pictured above, which was flown by Italian, British, and French pilots in the last year of World War I.
1918a
Bronze medal struck in honor of the outstanding Italian designer of large bomber planes.
Obverse: Profile surrounded by words "A GIANNI CAPRONI TRENTINO" (To Gianno Caproni of trento). Head rests on legend "CREATORE DELLE PIC GRANDI ALI PER LAPIV GRANDE ITALIA I CONTERRANEI MCMXVIII" (From his fellow countrymen in 1918 to the creator ofthe greatest wings for the greater Italy). Also shows name of artist "A. DAL CASTAGNE".
Reverse: Caproni World War I bomber over seal containing likeness of Pople. Around upper border are the words "VIGILAT VIRGILANTIBUS ALAS".
Circular: 2 1/8" (55mm) in diameter.
See 1918 for comment on Caproni.
1918b
Iron medal struck in honor of World War I German ace, F. C. Christiansen.
Obverse: Helmeted profile encircled by the pilot's full name "FRIEDRICH CHRISTIAN CHRISTIANSEN".
Reverse: Blank.
Circular: 2½" (63mm) in diameter.
Christiansen was one of the leading German Naval Air Service aces in World War I. He had 21 confirmed victories and was awarded the Ordre Pour le Merite on his 38thbirthday, December 12, 1917. He also survived World War II in which he held a command (photos and material on him are in Air Aces of the 1914-1918 War, Harleyford Pub.).
1918c
Pewter-like medal struck in honor of World War I pilot in Austrian naval Air Service.
Obverse: Three-quarter view bust encircled by words "K.U.K. LSCHLT (Imperial and Royal Linienschiffsleutnant) GOTTFRIED BANFIELD.
Reverse: Three biplanes flying boats in air bottle.
Circular: 1 15/16" (49mm) in diameter.
Banfield was a graduate of the Austrian Naval Academy and joined the Naval Air Service in 1912. His unit in World War I carried out day and night bombing raids on cities in Montenegro and also made attacks on French Naval units. He had 9 confirmed victories and fought an inconclusive engagement with the Italian ace, Baracca. There is a photo and material on Banfield in Air Aces of the 1914-1918 War (Harleyford).
1918d
Heavy bronze plaque in Germany, probably in the early part of World War I.
Obverse: Profile of a helmeted pilot, with scarf, and underneath, the phrase "SCHWING ZUR HOH DICH DEUTCHE DAR" (Swing to the heights, German eagles).
Reverse: A German maiden under a tree watches a plane approach. Underneath, the legend "DEN KUHNEN DEUTSCHEN HELDEN DER LUFT" (To the brave German heros of the air).
Circular: With domed top, 4 x 3 1/4" (101 x 83mm)
1918e
Medal struck in honor of Karl Schossleiter, a pioneer German pilot.
Obverse: Helmeted profile holding wheel of pre World War I plane. Above, the name "KARL SCHOSSLEITNER" and below, the phrases "STEIG AUF MAIN VOGEL, FLIEHE FLIEGE HOHER ZU ANDEREN PLANETEN" (Rise, my bird, escape, fly higher to the other planets).
Reverse: Blank.
Circular: 2" (60mm) in diameter.
1918f
Black Iron uniface plaque struck in Germany, probably during World War I.
Obverse:  Winged male figure in flight between two aircraft. Also shows name of artist "M. Gotze".
Reverse: Blank.
Rectangular: 3 x 1 7/8" (76 x 47mm).
1918g
Bronze plaque struck in Germany, probably during the early days of World War I.
Obverse: Aircraft bombing horse-drawn field artillery.
Reverse: Blank.
Rectangular: 3 x 1 7/16" (85 x 36mm).
1918h
Ceramic plaque in honor of Ernst Udet.
Obverse: Head in profile and the words ERNST UDET 1896-1941.
Reverse: Blank.
Circular: 5½" (14mm) in diameter.
Ernest Udet was the second highest scoring German ace in World War I, with 62 confirmed victories. In World War II, he became Chief of the technical office of the Luftwaffe. Goring and Milch blamed the shortcomings of the German Air Forces on Udet and he killed himself on November 17, 1941.
The sculptor of the plaque was von L. Fr. Gronau. It was struck commercially and was recommended by the German Aero Club as a prize for exceptional performance in the field of aeronautics.
1918i
Silver medal awarded to an American in Paris in 1918.
Obverse: Shows coat of arms, in the ribbons of which appears the words. Also shows the name of the artist "CH. MARLEY".
Reverse: Wreathes encircle a round plaque on which appears "1st. M.M. / AIR SERVICE / SGT. W. M. H. KNIGHT / PARIS / 1918". At the very bottom the name "H. DUBOIS".
Circular: 1" (36mm) in diameter, with link attachment at top.
1918j
Aero Club of America bronze Aviation Medal of Merit awarded to Henri Farre.
Obverse: Eagle in flight over globe and the words "AERO CLUB/ OF /AMERICA". Attached by ring and ribbon to pin-back shield on which appears "AVAIONT /MEDAL /OF/ MERIT".
Reverse: "LIEUTENANT / HENRI FARRE / COMMEMORATING / SPLENDID SERVICES RENDERED / TRAINING AVIATORS IN THE / UNITED STATES / 1914-1918".
Circular: 1 5/16" (34mm) in diameter. Ribbon is deep red and 1 ½ (38mm) wide.
1918-4-21
Silver medal struck as a memorial to Germany's greatest World War I fighter pilot.
Obverse: Full face bust surrounded by the words " Rittmeister Manfred FRHR V. RICHTOVEN".
Reverse: Eagle, plumed helmet and shield are in front of a tombstone bearing the date "21 APRIL 1918". An arrowing bearing the number 80 points to the stone. Around the upper circumference are the words "DER ROTE KAMPF FLIEGER" (The Red Battle Flyer). The artist's name, K. Goetz, also appears.
Circular: 1 7/16" (36mm) in diameter.
Manfred Freiherr von Richtofen (The Red Baron), with 80 victories, was the leading ace of World War I. He believed in, and led, a very large formation, known as the "Flying Circus". His plane was always identified by its red spinner--hence the nicknames, the red Battle Flyer and Red Knight.
1918-4-21a
Silver (.990 parts fine) medal struck as a memorial to Germany's greatest World War I fighter pilot.
Obverse: Full face bust surrounded by date "1917" and name "MANFRED RICHTHOFEN".
Reverse: Eagle's beak and a wreath with a cross followed by the date of Richthofen's death "21 APR. 1918". At the bottom in tiny letters appear the words "l. CHR. LAUER - NUERNBERG".
Circular: 1 5/16" (33mm) in diameter.
See 1918-4-21 for details.
1918-4-21b
Silver (.990 parts fine) medal struck in honor of Germany's top ranking World War I ace.
Obverse: Same as 19-4-21a.
Reverse: Shows a fist smashing an allied monoplane engulfed in flames.
Circular: 1 5/16" (33mm) in diameter.
See 1918-4-21 for details of Manfred Richthofen.
1918-6
British Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC).
Obverse: Silver cross with bombs on vertical bars. Horizontal bars shows wings. In the center is a roundel within a wreath of laurels enclosing an Imperial Crown and the letters R. A.F.
Reverse: The Royal Cypher of King George VI and the date "1918" in a circle. At the bottom the date "1945".
Silver: Maximum dimension 2 3/16" (58mm). Ribbon is of alternate violet and white diagonal stripes 1/8" in width running at angle of 45 degrees from the left bottom.
The DFC was established in 1918 as an award to officers and warrant officers of the Air Forces for "an act or acts of valor, courage or devotion to duty performed whilst flying in active operations against the enemy".
1918-6a
British Air Force Cross (AFC).
Obverse: Silver cross, the ends of which carry the Royal Cypher. In the center is a roundel with Hermes on a hawk bestowing a wreath. At the top is a crown attached to the ribbon by two sprays of laurel.
Reverse: Blank.
Circular: Maximum dimension 2 1/8" (54mm). Ribbon is of alternate crimson and white diagonal stripes 1/8" in width running at an angle of 45 degrees from the right bottom.
The AFC is a decoration for officers and warrant officers for acts of valor, courage or devotion to duty while flying, though not in active operations against the enemy.
1918-6b
Bronze medal struck on launching of French Aircraft Carrier "Bois Belleau".
Obverse: Aircraft carrier against faint background of a falcon on a gloved hand and the words "PORTE-AVIONS BOIS BELLEAU". Also shows name of artist "Georges Guiraud".
Reverse: Shows a section of the scarred World War I battlefield under the name "BOIS BELLEAU" and the dates of the main battle "JUIN JUILLET 1918".
Circular: 2 5/16" (58mm) in diameter.
The battles at Belleau Woods were not only severe but produced an Allied victory at a time when morale was at its lowest ebb. Hence had significance beyond its strategic importance. It was also one of the first times that U.S. troops were in action and proved their worth to the Allies.
1918-7-5
Bronze medal struck for royal flight over English Channel during World War I.
Obverse: The Words "KING ALBET AND QUEEN ELISABETH OF THE BELGIANS"encircles their heads in profile facing left. At the bas, the phrase "FORTISSIMI SUNT BELGAE".
Reverse: Shows flying boat over clouds and water. Around the perimeter, the legend "COMMEMORATING THEIR AERIAL CROSSING OF THE ENGLISH CHANNEL JULY MDCCCCXVIII".
Circular: 2½" (63mm) in diameter. Rim shows "MEDALLIC ART CO. N.Y.".
On July 5, 1918, the Belgian King and Queen flew in separate Belgian military seaplanes, escorted by three other Belgian seaplanes, to an English Channel port, to attend the 25th wedding anniversary of King George and Queen Mary of England, celebrated in London the next day. This was the first time royal visitors had arrived by airplane (The New York Times).
1918-10-5
Dark brown bronze medal struck for observer in World War I.
Obverse: Profile bust to left. At right, the name of the artist "C. De Vreese".
Reverse: The legend "A / JEAN DE MOT / CONSERVATEUR ADJOINT / DES MUSEES ROYAUX / DU CINQUANTENAIRE / VOLONTAIRE DE GUERRE / Ss LIEUTt OBSERVATEUR / A L'AEROSTATION MILre / MORT POUR LA PATRIE A / PASSCHENDAELE / LE 5 OCTOBRE 1918"
Circular: 2 3/4" (70mm) in diameter. On rim the name "J. Fonson".
Jean De Mot was a Belgian air force observer killed in action at Passchendaele.
1919-2-19
Bronze medal distributed at annual banquet of Aero Club of America in 1919.
Obverse: Bird in flight between the sun and the top portion of the globe and the caption "AERO CLUB / OF / AMERICA".
Reverse: "13th /ANNUAL BANQUET / FEBRUARY 19, 1919/ WALDORF- ASTORIA".
Circular: 2 9/16" (65mm) in diameter.
1919-5-1
Bronze pin and attached shield struck for the 2nd Pan American Aeronautic Convention.
Obverse: Shield shows a balloon, aeroplane and a dirigible, over the legend "2nd PAN AMERICAN / AERONAUTIC EXPOSITION / ATLANTIC CITY / MAY 1919". It is attached by a link to a pin in the shape of an eagle's wings.
Reverse: Blank except for the name of the striker "B. DAVIDOFF & Co. /N.Y.C.".
Size: Sheild is 1" (30mm) x 1 1/4" (33mm) and the pin has a maximum width of 1 3/4" (45mm).
The 2nd Pan American Aeronautic Convention was held from May 1 to May 31, 1919. It was under the joint direction of the Aero Club of America, the Aerial League of America, and the Pan American Aeronautic Federation. There were aerial contests of all kinds, with prizes, many exhibits, and speeches by leaders in the field of aviation.
1919-5-31
Bronze medal given by Glann Curtiss to the officers and crews of the three NC flying boats (and a few top-brass officials) at a dinner which he gave in their honor at the Commodore Hotel in New York City on July 10, 1919.
Obverse: The robed figure of Miss Columbia stands in the center with each hand touching a vertical propeller. At the left, the Statue of Liberty and underneath the words "FROM GLENN H. CURTISS". At the right, the U.S. capitol and beneath, the legend "COMMEMORATING THE FIRST TRANS-ATLANTIC FLIGHT MAY 31st, 1919". Also shows name of the artist "Kilenyi". At the base, U.S. Navy wings and the words "NAVY - NC-CURTISS".
Reverse: The NC4 in flight over the ocean on which there are two sailing ships and the part of a globe on which the route of the NC4 is indicated.
Circular: 4" (100mm) in diameter. On the rim appears "WHITEHEAD- HOAG".
The first airplane crossing of the North Atlantic was made by the NC4, one of three flying boats which left Trepassey Bay, Newfoundland, on May 16, 1919. It landed at Plymouth, England on May 31 after stops in the Azores and Lisbon. The NC4 was commanded by Lt. Com. A. C. Read.
1919-7-12
Silver medal struck by the Franklin Mint for the Catalina Island Visitors Bureau.
Obverse: In center, over the date "1919", a biplane flying boat in flight and underneath is the date "1969" and a modern twin-engine amphibian. Around the perimeter, the legend "50th ANNIVERSARY OF AIR SERVICE SANTA CATALINA ISLAND, CALIFORNIA".
Reverse: Shows view of, and the name, "AVALON /BAY".
Circular: 1½" (38mm) in diameter.
The first flight was made July 12, 1919, in a Curtiss plane named the "seagull" owed by Sid Chaplin and piloted by Arthur Burns. The Bureau claims this as the first scheduled air passenger service in the U.S., but, in fact, the Tamp-St. Petersburg service was started in January 1914. The same medal was also issued in Bronze at $2.00.
1919-11-12
Bronze medal struck by Stokes (Australasia) in honor of the London-Australia Air Race.
Obverse: Shows winged figure leaving England and touching Australia. At the left, the initials "R.A.C." and at right "R.F.A.C.A.". At the bottom, the legend "ENGLAND / TO AUSTRALIA AIR RACE".
Reverse: In the center a biplane, its crew of four and the dates "1919-1969". Around the perimeter, the legend "TO COMMEMORATE THE HISTORIC FLIGHT OF SIR ROSS & SIR KEITH SMITH. 50th ANNIVERSARY".
Circular: 2" (50.8mm) in diameter.
The Australian brothers Smith flew from Hounslow, England to Darwin, Australia, November 12 to December 10, 1919, in a Vickers Vimy plane powered by two Rolls-Royce engines. This was the first flight from England to Australia and the brothers were knighted for the flight.The design of the medal was by Donald Allnut with Dion H. Skinner. Dies were by Keith Grey. It was issued by Renniks & Co. Pty Ltd.
1919-11-12
Bronze medal struck in Australia for the 50th Anniversary of the first England Australia Flight.
Obverse: Shows the crew of four and the Vickers-Vimy biplane and the dates "1919-1969". Around the perimeter, the legend "TO COMMEMORATE THE HISTORIC FLIGHT OF SIRE TOSS & SIR KEITH SMITH - 50TH ANNIVERSARY".
Reverse: In a panel in the center, the information "FIRST / ENGLAND AUSTRALIA / FLIGHT / LONDON 12th NOV. 1919 / DARWIN 10th DEC. 1919". In a panel around the perimeter, the legend "NUMISMATIC ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA".
Circular: 2" (51mm) in diameter.
This flight covered 11,500 miles and was made in 29 days. The crew won the $50,000 prize offered by Australia for the first flight and the Smith Brothers were knighted for the history-making trip.
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