Description:
English medal, c.1858
Diameter 73mm
Medal struck to celebrate the opening of Aston Hall by Queen Victoria in 1858. The obverse features the bust of Queen Victoria facing right. Around the bust is a wreath made up of an oak branch to the left and a branch of roses, shamrocks and thistles, representing England, Ireland and Scotland, interlaced to the right. The inscription reads 'HER MOST GRACIOUS MAJESTY QUEEN VICTORIA', and at the base is the name of 'Ottley Birm:' (Birmingham), possibly the maker or engraver.
The reverse features a radiate crown above two shields, the left shield bears the coat of arms of the United Kingdom, surrounded by a wreath of olive and oak crossed at the base. The shield to the right bears the arms of Prince Albert with the flag of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha in the second and third quarters. The name of the Mayor of Birmingham, John Ratcliff Esq, is above the crown. Around the outside the inscription reads 'ASTON HALL & PARK WAS PURCHASED BY THE PEOPLE OF BIRMINGHAM FOR RECREATION GROUNDS & WAS INAUGURATED BY HER MGM QUEEN VICTORIA JUNE 15 1858'.