Historic Medals of Canada

 

By Alfred Sandham

 

[Originally published by the Literary and Historical Society of Quebec in Transactions, New Series, No. 10 (1873)]

 

MAN is said to be a hunting animal. Some hunt for foxes ; others for fame or fortune ; others hunt in the" intellectual field ; some for the arcana of nature and of mind ; some for the roots of words, or the origin of things. " I ana fond of hunting out a pedigree ;" so writes Mr. Lowe, in.his introduction to the Curiosities of Heraldry. While I can, to a great extent, appreciate Mr. Lowe's love for the study ,of heraldry, I must admit that to me the hunt after medais and coins possesses far higher pleasure, and an ever-increasing interest gathers about the study of numismatics. The very act of tracing up historical events commemorated by medals and coins, or of studying the character of the men whose deeds of valor are thereon recorded, when once systematically undertaken, " leads the student through the most interesting region of historical romance."

 

The popular idea of a numismatist is that of a man who very foolishly Wastes both time and money in gathering a quantity of old coins or medals merely for the satisfaction •of being able to say that he "has a collection." It is not uncommon to dispose of many things precisely in the same manner, when an opinion is formed without even the slightest attempt to Judge of a question by its true merits, " A map has no value to those who ignore geography. The claims of archaeology are disregarded by all who are content to remain in ignorance even of what it implies." In like manner, the study of numismatics appears under a different aspect to those who know it only by name, and to lovers of biography and history, who are familiar with its lucid and yet ever-suggestive guidance. To the genuine student in this field every coin or medal in his .collection opens a new subject of thought, and it is no idle employment to trace its history. Aside from their value as incentives to Historical research, there remains the fact that medals and coins have preserved more than any other monuments the history of the past. " If all our historians were lost to us," says Gibbon, "'medals and inscriptions would alone record the travels of Hadrian."

 

Medals in particular must ever afford delight to collectors. Novelty and beauty, our two great sources of pleasure, are well supplied by them. It is the thirst for novelty that makes man so curious in his researches into antiquity ; and hence arises the pleasure derived from medals, " displaying, as they do, the faces and forms of persons with whom history has made us so familiar, that we long to see the shapes and aspects of the bodies they inhabited, and the faces on which their minds and characters were impressed."

 

In like manner, we are delighted with the representation of the battles, honors, dresses, and other interesting circumstances belonging to them. The beauty of medals will also give additional zest to the pleasure afforded by them—a pleasure which is enhanced in proportion as the mind and imagination are refined and vigorous.

 

The French (above every other modern nation) have been distinguished by a love for the numismatic art. The monarchs of that nation have employed the mint to give dignity to their successes in arts and arms ; and all events worthy of notice are found recorded on their medals. To this source we are indebted for the deeply-interesting medals which I shall describe in the first division of this paper. In bringing before you a few pages of Canadian history, which have been perpetuated by the issue of medals, I may state that it is probable much may be written that is familiar, still nothing is referred to beyond that which is indispensable to the proper connection of the events noted, and I trust that the medals exhibited (many of which are rare and valuable) may serve not only to please, but to instruct.

 

It cannot fail to interest the members of the Literary and Historical Society when they learn that the earliest Canadian historical medal is that struck by order of Louis XIV., to commemorate the defeat of Sir Wm. Phipps, the would-be-conqueror of the " ancient capital." It is true we have a private medal of Chevalier de Levis, viceroy in Canada in 1644 ; but beyond the fact, that by letters-patent dated Nov. 1644, he was named a viceroy and lieutenant-general of the French possessions in America, there is but little of special interest attached to the medal. Abbé Ferland informs us that the De Levis family claim for themselves a direct descent from the Patriarch Jacob by his son Levi ; and in a family-chapel there is a painting representing the Virgin Mary in conversation with a member of the Levi family, who stands holding his hat in his hand. The inscription explains the picture : " Couvrez-vous, mon cousin," says the virgin. " C'est mon plaisair, ma cousine," responds the descendant of Levi. The medal is however a beautiful work of art, and will always form a valued addition to a cabinet of medals.

 

I shall now proceed as rapidly as possible to the historic events which may claim attention.

 

Until the extension of the British settlements in the now United States, Canada enjoyed an almost uninterrupted tranquillity. When M. de la Barre arrived as Viceroy, in 1682, he found that the English, by the payment of more liberal prices for furs, had succeeded in drawing away a great portion of the French trade, and that the Iroquois were even purchasing from the Huron allies of the French and selling again to the English. At this interference with what had hitherto been a monopoly, the French felt greatly incensed, and efforts were made to stop the trade. The attempts made proved worse than a failure : it incensed the English and their Indian allies, and for years the French settlements were kept in constant agitation and alarm. It became apparent to the French Government that there should be appointed, as Viceroy, one whose influence over the Indian tribes might once more regain their friendship; and accordingly, to meet the emergency, Count de Frontenac, who, during a former official sojourn in the country, had won the love and respect of the several tribes, was in 1689 re-appointed Viceroy. Under ordinary circumstances he might have succeeded in his mission ; but war was declared between France and England, and the Iroquois wisely foresaw that their inteiests lay with the English settlers, and,therefore, allied themselves to the strongest side. Incursions were now made by the French into the English settlements, and with such secrecy that the unsuspecting inhabitants of many villages and towns were taken prisoners, or massacred without an opportunity for defence.

 

The people of New-England and New-York, feeling that their safety depended upon the removal of such troublesome neighbors, determined to drive the French out of Canada altogether ; and preparations were accordingly made to effect this object. Expeditions were despatched to reduce Quebec and Montreal. The former, comprising 34 ships and 2000 volunteers, under command of Sir Wm. Phipps, sailed from Boston on August 19th, 1690, reaching Quebec, October 16th. Countde Frontenac had but three days before received warning of the departure of this expedition from Boston, and the preparations for defence had to be hastily performed.

 

Sir Wm. Phipps, immediately on his arrival, sent a summons to surrender. His messenger was so completely surprised by his reception, and the ceremonies through which he was compelled to pass, while blindfolded, that when he appeared in presence of the sturdy old Governor, some considerable time elapsed ere he sufficiently recovered from his embarrassment to enable him to present his summons with the dignity he so naturally considered as necessary to the importance of the occasion. The reply given by the Governor Was such as might have been expected in answer to the arrogant terms laid down by Phipps ; and when the messenger asks for a written answer, the Count rejoins ; " Retire, sir ; tell your General that the muzzle of my cannon will forthwith bear my answer to the rude summons he has sent me." True to his word, the orders were given, and the batteries opened upon the fleet with telling effect. Sir Wm. sought, by stratagem, to gain advantages over the enemy ; but he signally failed, and finally retired from the conflict,, having lost many of his men, and leaving his artillery (which he had landed) as a prize to the French. Such is a brief account of the circumstances which are commemorated by the medal, known to numismatists as the " Kebeka Liberata," and which was prepared by order of Louis XIV immediately on receipt of intelligence of the defeat of the English. The medal bears on the obverse the head of Louis, with the inscription: “ Ludovicus Rex Christianissimus.” On the reverse France is seen seated upon a ledge of rocks (typifying Quebec), and surrounded by banners and armor; by her side is a beaver, and in the background a number of pine trees ; while at the base of the rock is seated a male figure, intended to represent the River St. Lawrence. The inscription, " Francia in novo orbe victrix," surrounds the upper portion of the medal, while the exergue completes the significance of the design and inscriptions, by bearing the words, “Kebeca Liberata, M.DC. XC.”

 

Volumes have been written wherein are recorded the engagements which took place between the two nations during the war which was terminated by the peace of Ryswick, 20th September, 1697, and the subsequent hostilities during the war of Queen Anne (declared 1702). The events of these wars more particularly affecting the tranquility of Canada, took place in the neighborhood of Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, and the Island of Cape Breton. Passing onward to the year 1711, we find that «s an agent was despatched (by the British Government) to Paris, with proposals for a peace, which proved very acceptable to the French Government. In the following year a suspension of hostilities was signed, and negotiations for a general peace were commenced."

 

During these negotiations the French made great exertions to recover Acadie, which had been taken, and they offered in exchange the valuable fisheries of Newfoundland and other posts ; but the offer was rejected. In 1712, under date May 24th, a proposition was made, on behalf of Queen Anne, " That the subjects of His Majesty (Louis XIV.) should enjoy, in common with the Queen's, the island of Cape Breton, and that the islands in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and in the mouth of the river of that name, which are at present possessed by the French, should remain to his most Christian Majesty, but expressly upon the condition that his said Majesty shall engage himself not to raise or suffer to be raised any fortifications in these islands or in that of Cape Breton ; the Queen engaging herself, likewise, not to fortify, or suffer any fortifications to be raised in the adjacent islands and those next Newfoundland, nor in that of Cape Breton." To this article the French King naturally demurred, and claimed his rights of the privilege of erecting such fortifications as he might think necessary for the protection of the island of Cape Breton, which he maintained should belong exclusively to France, and not to be occupied in common with the English, as was demanded ; and at the same time he conceded that it was "just that the Queen of Great Britain should have the same liberty to erect what fortifications she will think necessary, whether in Acadie or in the isle of Newfoundland." Finally, by the Treaty of Utrecht, signed on April 11th, 1713, it was agreed " that the Island of Cape Breton, as also all others, both in the mouth of the river St. Lawrence and in the Gulf of the same name, shall hereafter belong of right to the King of France, who shall have liberty to fortify any place or places there."

 

Cape Breton being now the only point along the whole Atlantic coast of North America which remained to France, it became an object of the first necessity to that nation to construct a fortified naval station on that island. The garrison and inhabitants of Plaisance were immediately removed to Havre a l'Anglois (Louisbourg), which was favorably known as suitably situated for carrying on the fishery. Beyond its favorable situation there was at that time little said on behalf of this place, and several years elapsed before the French Government came to the decision to erect fortifications there. When the decision was finally taken, " the name was changed to Louisbourg, in honor of the King ; and, to mark the value set upon the island of Cape Breton, it was called Isle Royale."

 

Nothing worthy of record occurred at Louisbourg after it» foundation until the year 1720, when the fortifications were commenced. The importance of this work is clearly shewn in the fact that it was deemed worthy of commemoration by the striking of a medal by order of the Government, This medal bears on the obverse a bust of the King, and the inscription: " Ludovieus XV., D.GY, Fr. et, Nav,, Rex— {Louis XV., by the Grace of God, King of France and Navarre.) On the reverse is shewn a plan of the fortifications of Louisbourg, with vessels before the city ; the inscription being " Ludovicoburgum, fundatim et munitum M.DCCXX."

 

" From this time the population began to increase rapidly by the arrival of officers, mechanics, and laborers ; while the people of New-England speedily availed themselves of the valuable market offered for their surplus produce." For twenty years the French Government devoted all its energy and resources to the completion of the fortifications ; and even the English colonists contributed a great proportion of the material used in their construction. The fortifications were very extensive and formidable, and, indeed, considered impregnable. In the circuit of the walls there wars embrasures for 143 guns. The principal entrance to thë town was through the west gate, over a draw-bridge, covered by the guns of two batteries ; and access from the land-side was equally difficult. Between the year 1720 and 1745 the enormous sum of £1,200,000 sterling was expended, and the fortifications were still unfinished.

 

The tranquillity which pervaded the colonies after the Treaty of Utrecht, was terminated by the war entered upon in 1744. Immediately upon the declaration of war, the French despatched information thereof to Louisbourg, and the Governor at once prepared to attack the English settlements in Newfoundland. It is said that in this matter he acted without orders from the Government ; nevertheless, his action undoubtedly hastened the decision of the British to reduce Louisbourg. When the plan for the first attack was laid by Governor Shirly before the General Court of Massachusetts, the strictest caution was enjoined upon the members, and the question was discussed under an oath of secrecy, lest its purport might reach the enemy's ears. For several days it was kept secret ; but a pious old deacon, a member of the Legislature, having been heard invoking the favor of Heaven upon the enterprise^ at his devotions, it soon became public, and excited astonishment at its audacity. Notwithstanding the boldness of the scheme, it Was successfully carried out, and, after a siege of over six weeks, Louisbourg surrendered to Sir "Wm. Pepperel. The conquest, which was achieved at the expense of many valuable lives, proved of but little service to the English. The fifth article of the treaty of Aix-Ia-Chapelle, signed April 30th, 1748, having provided for the restoration of all conquests, without any exception.

 

Eight years later war was again declared ; and when, in December, 1757, the British Parliament met, the King declared his intention to protect the rights of his crown and subjects in America, and that active measures should now be taken to effect the conquest of Canada. To accomplish this great object, the reduction of Louisbourg was decided upon. For this enterprise a combined naval and military force was organized, under command of Admiral Boscawen and General Amherst. With this, the second siege of Louisbourg, commenced an era in the history of Canada which has been largely commemorated by the issue of medals, some of which are very beautiful, and each specimen possessing great attractions to the Canadian numismatist.

 

On May 28th, 1758, the fleet under Boscawen sailed from Halifax for Louisbourg. It numbered in all 157 sail, of which 118 were transports conveying the land force of 12,000 men. General Amherst arrived from Germany in time to join the squadron at the mouth of the harbour. It is not necessary to trace the siege to its successful termination. On the 26th July, 1758, the articles of capitulation were signed, and Louisbourg forever passed from the hands of the French Government ; and that power received the most effective blow of the war, losing its main depot for the support of its army in North America.

 

Prominent among the officers who took part in the siege was one whose name will ever occupy a conspicuous place in the pages of Canadian history, James Wolfe, who was one of the first to leap on shore and scale the cliffs. His detachment consisted of about 2000 men, and his instructions were to proceed around the northern harbour and attack a projecting neck of land commanding a small island-battery which gave considerable annoyance to the besiegers. He successfully accomplished this, and erected a battery which commanded one of the most important outposts of the enemy. Recalled to the front, he bravely took part in the most important attacks; and wherever there was difficulty or danger, Wolfe was in the foremost rank. Such was the character of the General to whom was now entrusted the command of the expedition about to be despatched to attack Quebec.

 

The attack upon and surrender of the " Gibraltar of America," with the loss of the gallant leader, are facts " familiar as household words," and need not be here repeated. After the capitulation the British troops encamped around the city till quarters could be found within the walls, and the commanders quietly awaited the passing of the winter months. The plan of action for the campaign of 1760, decided upon by the British Government, provided for the reinforcement of the Quebec garrison, which was to be increased sufficiently to proceed under command of General James Murray to attack Montreal ; General Haviland had orders to assemble his troops on Lake Champlain and force a passage towards the point indicated ; finally, General Amherst was to assemble a numerous army at Oswego, and,, descending the St. Lawrence, join the two other corps before Montreal. Notwithstanding efforts made by the French to thwart these plans, they were successfully carried out. On the 6th September, Amherst's forces landed on the island to the west of the city. On the 7th, Murray and his troops disembarked, and took up their position to the north-east ; and on the following day Haviland arrived with a force of 3000 men ; and thus, an army of nearly 16,000 men were assembled before the city. To such an overwhelming force resistance was useless, and on the 9th of September Vaudreuil signed the articles of capitulation which severed Canada from France.

 

It was but natural that the daring deeds performed, and the successes achieved during those memorable campaigns should attract the attention of the medallists of the day ; and we accordingly find nearly a score of these metallic mementoes, on which are depicted the battles which were fought, and in some instances portraits of the Generals under whose command the armies gained such victories. These medals may be divided into three distinct classes : 1st those which commemorate the capture of Louisbourg only; 2nd, the capture of Quebec and Montreal ; and 3rd, medals Which, while commemorating both of these events, also refer to engagements in other parts of the world.

 

Of the first series there are seven medals, as follows :

 

1.—Obverse—A globe, on either side of which is a soldier and sailor, who point to the portion marked Canada ; above is Fame blowing a trumpet, while the figure of France lies prostrate beneath the globe. Reverse—A naval fight, with the Louisbourg fortifications, &c. : " Louisbourg taken, 1758."

 

2.— Obverse—Head of Britannia: "O, fair Britannia, Hail!" Reverse—Victory marching. Same inscription as No. 1.

 

3.—Obverse—Similar to No. 1. Reverse—Victory standing upon the prow of a war-vessel, and holding a crown ; the inscription being the same as No. 1.

 

4.—Obverse—Head as on No. 1, with names of “Boscawen, Saunders, and Wolfe.” Reverse—Same as No. 2.

 

5.—Obverse—Bust of Boscawen in armor : " Admiral Boscawen took Cape Breton." Reverse—A view of the siege of Louisbourg : " Louisbourg, July 26, 1758."

 

6.—Obverse—Bust in naval uniform ; otherwise, same as No. 5. Reverse—Similar scene to that depicted on No. 5) but reversed in position.

 

7.—Obverse—Bust of Boscawen in armor : " To brave Admiral Boscawen." Reverse---The French commander kneeling before Boscawen and surrendering his sword : " I surrender prisoner, 1758."

 

Of the second series there are five types, as follows :

 

1.—Obverse—Bust of General Wolfe to right : " Jacobus Wolfe Anglus." Reverse—An urn upon a pedestal surrounded by military trophies : " In victori ceasus Quebecœ, Sept. XIII., M.DCC.LIX., pro patrea."

 

2.—Obverse—Head of Britannia between a trident and standard saltiere-wise, and bound by a wreath : " Saunders, Wolfe." Reverse—Victory crowning a trophy, a captive bound : " Quebec taken, 1759."

 

3.—Obverse—A laureated male figure reclining with right arm on the prow of a Roman galley ; the left holding a paddle ; a beaver at his feet ; in the back-ground is a Roman standard surmounted by a lion, and inscribed, " Amherst." In exergue—A shield, bow, battle-axe, and quiver of arrows : " The conquest of Canada compleated." Reverse—A female seated weeping beneath a pine-tree ; before her a shield charged with fleurs-de-lis; behind her an eagle ready to fly from a rock. In exergue—" For promoting arts and commerce." Above—" Montreal taken, 1760."

 

4.—Obverse—Bust of George II. to left : " Greorgius II., Rex." Reverse—Same as No. 3 : " Canada subdued, 1760."

 

There are doubts as to the origin of the fifth medal of this series. The only known specimen is now in the collection of Mr. I. F. Wood, of New York. It is composed of a soft metal, resembling lead, and bears upon the obverse a view of Montreal with its walls, above which appears the word " Montreal." In an oval depression below are the letters " D.C.F." The reverse has engraved near the top the word Tankalkel, (?) and in the centre, in Roman letter, "Mohigrans." Mr. Wood writes to me that he has but recently heard of another variety of this medal with the name " Onondagos" in lieu of " Mohigrans." Considerable mystery attaches itself to these medals, and well-qualified authorities have expressed doubts as to their authenticity as struck medals.

 

Passing on to the third series, we find but four varieties ; indeed, we may say there should be but two named, as the others are what are familiarly known as mules, being formed by using alternately the obverse and reverse dies of the first two to be noticed :

 

1.—Obverse—Laureated bust of George II in armor: " Georgius II., Rex." Reverse—In centre a shield charged with an inverted fieur-de-lis, and surrounded by a garter, inscribed, " Perfidia eversa ;" the whole supported by a lion and unicorn. The ribbon below the arms is inscribed, " W. Pitt, ausp. Geo. II., Pr. Mi." Immediately above the arms, " Hawke Quiberon, November 20 ;" and over this is a shield, " Quebec, Wolfe, Monk'n, Towns'd, Sept. 13, 18." Under the arms, 1759 ; and in a shield, "Minden Ferdinand, Aug. 1." On the right of the arms, " Crown Point, Amherst, Aug. 4; Lagos, Boscawen, Aug. 19;" to left, "Guadalope, Barring'n, Moore, May 1 ; Niagara, Johnson, July 25."

 

2.—Obverse—Britannia seated in a chariot drawn by a lion, and supported by Liberty and Justice. The ground on which the figures stand is studded with fleurs-de-lis. -On a ribbon is inscribed, "Foedus—invectum ;" below, "1758." Round the medal, in two lines : " Senegal, Mai 2 ; St. Malos, Jun. 16 ; Cherbourg, Au. 16 ; Louisbourg, July 27 ; Frontec, Aug. 27 ; Duquesne, Nov. 24; Gorree, Dec. 29 ; Marsh, Mason, Marlboro, How, Boscawen, Amherst, Bradstreet, Forbes, Keppel." Reverse—Same as No 1.

 

3.—Obverse—Same as reverse of No. 1. Reverse—Same as obverse of No. 2.

 

4.—Obverse—Same as No. 1. Reverse—Same as No. 2.

 

Without exception, the medals of these three series are very scarce ; indeed, specimens of Nos. 2, 3, and 4, of the first series, have not been met with in Canada ; and the only specimen of No. 7 is that in my possession (now exhibited).

 

For fifteen years subsequent to the conquest nothing transpired to call forth the artist's skill ; but at the termination of those years the American invasion disturbed the peace of the colony and demanded the services of the inhabitants.

 

Nobly was the response given, and the attempt to wrest Canada from the rule of the British was promptly and completely defeated. To mark their appreciation of services rendered during these stirring times by the Indian allies of the British, the Government caused to be issued among the chief warriors a number of silver medals, bearing on the obverse a bust of the King and the words " G-eorgius III., Dei Gratia." On the reverse appears the Royal arms, without inscription or date. There' are two or three varieties of this medal, all of similar design, but varying in size, the largest weighing 4 ¼ ounces.

 

Thirty-seven years after the American invasion, the war known as that of 1812-14 broke out, and once more the Canadians were put upon the defensive. This war was attended with at least one good result : it served to shew the loyalty of the Canadians to the British throne, and their deliberate preferment for a British connection. Their loyalty had been impeached and spoken of as a thing which might be easily corrupted by bribery, or daunted by threats ; but the invaders found them animated by a very different spirit when the invasion was made. Their bribes were rejected ; threats were unheeded, and the invaders repelled. To this defeat the gallantry of the Canadians largely contributed. This War has left us many souvenirs in the form of medals, some of which are now extremely rare, and, therefore, greatly sought after by collectors.

 

Following the course adopted after the invasion of 1775, the British Government presented to the Indian chiefs medals similar to those issued at that time ; but in this instance the date (1814)-was added, to distinguish the. medals from those previously awarded. The medals are also of superior workmanship, noticeable more particularly in the arms on the reverse. Medals were also distributed in 1848 (!) to the Canadian regiments which had taken part in the war. This medal is the ordinary English War Medal, bearing on the obverse the head of Victoria, with the date 1848 ; the reverse shewing Victoria crowning the Duke of Wellington, and the inscription : " To the British Army, 1793-1814." The clasps attached to this medal bear the names, " Chateauguay," " Chrysler's Farm," or " Detroit."

 

There is also a medal with the same obverse as the Indian medals ; but the reverse presents a landscape with a church and buildings in the distance, and a wolf and lion in the foreground. The significance of this medal is a mystery to Canadian collectors ; but time- will probably reveal its meaning.

 

Still another medal remains to be described—namely, that of the Royal and Patriotic Society of Upper Canada.

 

This Society grew out of the peculiar circumstances, of Upper Canada when war was declared by the United States against Great Britain in 1812. Utterly unprepared for war, the militia of the province was suddenly called to the frontier to oppose invasion ; it had neither arms nor clothing.

 

The first attention of their gallant leader, after arming them at the expense of the enemy, was to provide clothing suitable to the severity of the then approaching season.

 

From some cause, not explained, actual relief was so long delayed, that individual sympathy was excited ; and the inhabitants of York (now Toronto), by a private subscription, aided by the personal labors of the young ladies of the place, afforded a supply of clothing to the companies doing duty on the lines between Niagara and Fort Erie. It was soon discovered that great distress must unavoidably, in many cases, result to families deprived of their sole support—the labor of fathers, husbands, sons, and brothers, employed in arms. To meet, in some degree, and to alleviate such distress-, an association, to be known as the Loyal and Patriotic Society of Upper Canada,' was projected, and instantly adopted, with a zeal creditable to the inhabitants of York.

 

The objects of this Society were to afford aid and relief to the families of the militia, and to reward merit, excite emulation, and commemorate glorious exploits by bestowing medals or other honorable distinctions for extraordinary instances of heroism.

 

A sum of money was voted to put into effect the latter part of the Society's plans, and the following description of the desired medal was sent to England :—Medal to be "two inches and one-half in diameter." In a circle, formed by a wreath of laurel, the words, "For merit. Presented by a grateful country." On the obverse, a streight between two lakes ; on the north side a Beaver (emblem of peaceful industry), the ancient armorial bearing of Canada. In the back-ground, an English Lion slumbering. On the south side of the streight, the American Eagle planeing in the air as if checked from seizing the Beaver by the presence of the Lion Legend, "Upper Canada preserved."

 

It appears from the records of the Society that the artist (whose name is not known) did not adhere to the design and instructions given, and the medals prepared by him were rejected. A committee was appointed to further consider this question ; and at a meeting held June 12, 1813, it wfes recommended, and adopted, " that ,£1,000 sterling be placed at the disposal of the treasurer, to procure medals of the same device as that previously ordered." Also, " towards carrying into effect the third object of the society, that 200 silver medals be struck, and that a communication of the resolution be made by the President to His Excellency Lt.-Governor Glore, with a request that he would cause them to be executed."

 

The dies for this medal were prepared by Mr. Wyon, and the order was completed to the entire satisfaction of the committee.

 

The rejected medals remained for many years in the possession of the late Alex. Wood, Esq., of Toronto, and were at length defaced by a blacksmith named Paul Bishop, Who Was employed for the purpose. The gold was sold to a Watchmaker of Toronto., named J. G. Joseph ; While the silver ones passed into the hands of another jeweller, named T. MacMurray[1]

 

Before I proceed to speak of the medals commemorating the visit of the Prince of Wales to Canada, in i860, it may not prove uninteresting to take a passing glance at a few medals which, during the intermediate years, were issued by various literary, art, and scientific societies. Foremost, in point of time and interest, is that prepared for the Society before the members of which I have now the honor to read this paper. The Society has done much in the past, and is still labouring for the advancement of Literature and science ; and few there are who are not acquainted, to some extent, with its objects and aims. While the Society itself is so well known, the medal formerly awarded by it is probably unknown to nine-tenths of the numismatists of Canada ; and, thus far, I know of but one collection in which it is to be found. The medal of the Natural History Society of Montreal is worthy a place by the side of that just referred to. Jn 1851 Canada took its place among the nations of the earth at the World's Exhibition held in London 3 and, by the display of its mining, agricultural, and manufacturing resources, made a deep and favorable impression upon the mother-country and foreign nations. In addition to the medal awarded by the Royal Commissioners, the Earl of Elgin generously added thereto ,one which bears on the obverse the Earl's arms, and the inscription, " Canadian Prize-great Exhibition, 1851 ;" while the reverse bears the name of the noble donor, and within a wreath is placed the name of the recipient. The following year, the Board of Agriculture for the Province was established ; and the prize-medal adopted by it proved a valued addition to those already possessed by Canada. The design chosen, consisting of the arms and name of the Board on the obverse, and the reverse with its representation of Fame and the simple inscription, " Exposition Provinciale Agricole," plainly marks out the object for which the medal is issued and the Society awarding it.

 

The brethren of the " Mystic Tie" have also contributed their quota to the numismatic treasures of our Dominion. The event perpetuated by this medal is the union of the Grand Lodges, which was consummated 14th July, 1858.

 

It is now my pleasing duty to speak of an event which, above all others, of later days, spread unusual pleasure and satisfaction over our land. I refer to the visit of His Royal Highness Albert Edward, Prince of Wales. For many years there had been a growing desire on the pari of her Majesty's subjects in Canada to have an opportunity of seeing their Sovereign, or, at least, some representative who should be so in more than an official sense. When the address of the Houses of Parliament was presented, the promise made by her Majesty (after a complete acceptance) was the most agreeable answer that could have been returned ; and on the 24th July, 1860, her beloved son landed in the North-American colonies. This visit was remarkable for a variety of reasons, and every locality visited by the Prince has its own peculiar mementoes : the most lasting, however, will be the medals which were struck in honor of the same, or which were subsequently founded by the Prince as marks of his appreciation of the hearty reception accorded him. Of the former class of medal we have seven types. There is, first, the Hoffnung medal, with its two varieties. This was prepared for the dealer by whose name it is now known. It is a very fine medal, and, with its view of the

Victoria bridge and full particulars relating thereto, will always prove of value. The difference in the varieties is caused by an error as to the cost of the bridge, $5,000,000 appearing on one and $7,000,000 on the other.

 

Another (very poorly executed) medal was largely disposed of during the visit. It has a bust of the Prince on the obverse, and the inscription, "To commemorate the visit of Albert Edward, Prince of Wales, to Canada, 1860." There are three varieties of this type. On one the Prince has a moustache ; the other being minus that mark of manliness. In both these the inscriptions are in square letters. The third variety has the moustache also, but the letters are Roman. Still another variety of this medal is found with the obverse of the first-described, while the reverse bears a very creditable representation of Victoria Bridge, with the inscription, “Victoria Bridge, Montreal, opened by the Prince of Wales, 1860." The immediate object of the Prince's visit was to open the bridge referred to on these medals ; and it is, therefore, but natural that while private enterprise sought to commemorate the event by medals, the Directors of the Grand Trunk should likewise adopt a similar course. Their decision to do so has given us the most beautiful medal of the series, reflecting credit on their taste, and particularly so upon the artists who produced it (Messrs. J. S. & A. B. Wyon, of 287 Regent-street, London). The obverse bears a head of the Royal visitor, with his title surrounding it ; while the reverse has the badge of the Prince surrounded by a wreath, and the word " Welcome" thrice repeated. Surrounding the whole appear the words : " Visited Canada and inaugurated the Victoria Bridge, 1860."

 

During his stay in Montreal the Prince formally opened the Industrial Exhibition, held in the building erected for that purpose by the Board of Arts and Manufactures. A prize-medal was prepared by the Messrs. Wyon for the Board, and was extensively distributed among the exhibitors. It bears the arms of the Board on the obverse and on the reverse a Wreath of maple leaves enclosing the inscription : Exhibition Of Canadian Industry. Opening of Victoriai Bridge by H.. R,. H. Prince of Wales. Montreal, 1860."

 

As I have already stated, the Prince, to mark- his appreciation of the kind reception given him in Canada placed a sum of money at the disposal of several of the colleges and educational institutes to, found prizes, as might lpe thought most advisable. It is not necessary that I should describe the medals, which ate now lasting mementoes of the Prince's visit. The colleges which adopted medals are the McGill College, Montreal ; Bishop's College, Lennoxvilie ; Victoria College, Cobourg ; and the Council of Public Instruction for the Province of Quebec. "With the exception of Victoria College medal, the bust of the Prince is placed on the obverse ; while the reverse bears an inscription commemorating the Prince's visit, in some instances supplemented by the arms of the college.. The Victoria medal has her Majesty's bust instead of the Prince's.

 

In 1864 the tercentenary of the birth of Shakspere was celebrated, and the citizens of Montreal founded a medal to be awarded to students in McGill College for proficiency in English literature. On the obverse is placed the bust and name of Shakspere, with the dates of birth and death 1564-1616. The reverse is richly ornamented, and bears the name of the college, the course for which the medal is awarded, and the event which it commemorates.

 

It would afford me great pleasure to have closed my paper With, descriptions of medals struck as mementoes of the triumph of the arts and sciences or the spread of knowledge but, unfortunately, such cannot be.

 

The circumstances which led to the issue of the medal next to be described are of such a nature as to render it difficult to, express in words the indignation which must be felt by every Canadian when he recalls the scenes of 1866:. It is hard to realize that from a land with which we were at peace there should' be permitted to march such hordes of lawless ruffians, as during that year invaded our country. Without noticing the circumstances which gave rise to the political organization known as the “Fenian Brotherhood,” or to the encouragement given them by the citizens of the United-States,. I shall simply state that, unheeded, or, at. least, unrestrained, they were, permitted to arm, drill, and march, as an invading force, across; our, borders, and for a (very) brief season spread confusion, among the peaceful farmers on the borders, and, unhappily, shed the blood of a few of our noble young men. Who had gone-forth to repel them. With unprincipled leaders and demoralized men,, it was but natural that the miserable attempt to free Ireland by sacking. Canada should fail,, and that they found The- whole country a unit in its defence.. The principal scene-of action; in this,, the "first invasion,” was in the western part of our land; and the most disastrous, to the lives of our volunteers. was the engagement at Ridgeway.. The brave men who took part; that day in their country's defence will always receive honor for their services... But while the government, the press,, and the people freely attested to their heroism, there were some who looked to still further honors. The County of Welland was. the only locality in which this plan was adopted;, and dies were ordered for a, medal, which Were, however, but little used,, owing to unwillingness, on the part of the government^, to, allow the. wearing of such; decorations unless emanating, from the authorities usually charged with such duties. They, very naturally feared that-, the indiscriminate bestowal of medals, would lessen the-value now attached by British, soldiers to, such honors Certainly, the medal prepared can, scarcely, be considered; a " thing, of beauty." It is exceedingly plain, and but poorly-executed ;. nevertheless, from the fact that (so far as lean learn) but two specimens were struck, it, will, always be scarce. On the obverse is, a cannon and the inscription" Fort Erie, June 2nd, 1866." The reverse has in a circle : " Presented by the County of Welland."

 

With pleasure I leave this subject, and proceed to speak of an event which, above all others, deserved to be handed down to future ages by the medallic art. The confederation of the whole North-American colonies had for years been suggested, and debates in the Houses of Parliament had taken place upon the subject. The time was now approaching when the great desire of the people was about to be consummated. The legislatures of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland passed resolutions adopting the scheme. The latter, however, failed to carry them into practical effect ; while Prince Edward Island wholly declined to become part of the Dominion. All the preliminaries having been disposed of, the final terms were submitted to the Imperial Parliament ; and on the 22nd May, 1867, the work of legislation being fully completed, her Majesty was pleased to issue her Royal proclamation, appointing the first day of July as the day on which the DOMINION OF CANADA should commence its existence. The great project of confederation was completed, and " the morning-voice of a new people was heard among the nations of the earth."

 

To commemorate this important work, the Messrs. Wyon, of London, were instructed by the Canadian Government to prepare a medal ; and the genius and skill of those artists have produced a work which will bear comparison with any medal ever published. It is massive, measuring four inches in diameter. On the obverse is a bust of her Majesty crowned, and with a veil which covers the back of the head and neck. The inscription, "Victoria, D. G., Britt. Reg., J. D.,n surrounds the bust. On the reverse is an allegorical design, representing Britannia conferring the charter of Confederation upon the four provinces, Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick. " Juventas et Patrius vigor Canada Instaurata, 1867," is the motto which surrounds the group.

 

Since the inauguration of the New Dominion, British Columbia and the North-West Territory, with their vast extent of rich soil and mines, have been added ; and the Government, to mark their appreciation of services rendered by the Indians in the North-West, have issued a medal which bears a head of Victoria, with the title " Victoria Regina" on the obverse ; while the reverse simply bears a wreath of oak leaves. A combination-medal (if I may use such a term) was also prepared for distribution among the chiefs. This was made by adding to the Confederation-medal a rim of about half an inch in width, on which were placed raised letters as follows : " Dominion of Canada—Indians of the North-West—Chiefs' medal." From this manufactured copy, electrotype-shells were taken, filled with lead, and the whole silver-plated. I know not whether these were distributed to the " poor Indians" as silver medals ; but if so, it was anything but creditable to those who ordered them ; and I can imagine the disgust of some dusky warrior who shall attempt to renew his stock of fire-water by offering in payment his lump of silvered copper and lead.

 

Two or three medals have been issued since the date just referred to ; but, with the exception of one prepared to mark the celebration of the thanksgiving-services for the recovery of the Prince of Wales, they can scarcely be classed among those which come within the compass of a paper such as the present. The Thanksgiving-medal will always be prized as a beautiful medal, worthy of a place by the side of the many which Canada may now boast of possessing.

 

NOTE.—I would add that for historical data I am indebted to the following sources :

History of Cape Breton, by Brown.

Conquest of Canada, by Kirke.

National Medals, by Mudie.

History of Canada, by Dr. Miles, McMullen, Smith, and Bell.

War of 1812-14, by Auchinlick.

 

Medals, &c., Exhibited,

 

1—DeLévis.

2—Kebeka Liberata.

[These two medals are in the Museum of the Literary and Historical Society of Quebec]

3—Founding of Louisbourg.

4 and 5—Louisbourg Taken.

6— Boscawen Medallet (very rare)

7—Wolfe.

8—Saunders and Wolfe : Quebec Taken

9—Conquest of Canada Completed, and Montreal Taken

11—Lithograph of rate Montreal Medal.

12 and 13—General Commemoration

15—Indian Medal, 1814

16—   do      do   Landscape.

17—Upper Canada Preserved.

18—Elgin.

19—Agricultural Society's.

20—Masonic.

21—Hoffnung,

22—-Prince of Wales—To Commemorate, &c

23—   do            Victoria Bridge.

24—        do            Grand Trunk Company

25—   do            Board of Arts.

26—   do            McGill College.

21—        do         Bishop's College.

28—        do         Victoria College.

29—Shakspere.

30—Confederation.

31—Indian.

32—Prince of Wales' Thanksgiving.