Description:
Birmingham medal, c.1858
Diameter 45mm
Medal struck to celebrate the opening of Aston Hall by Queen Victoria in 1858. The obverse features the bust of Queen Victoria facing left and the inscription 'HER M.G.M. QUEEN VICTORIA VISITED BIRMINGHAM JUNE 15 1858 FOR THE PURPOSE OF OPENING ASTON HALL & PARK/ THEY HAVING BEEN PURCHASED BY THE INHABITANTS AS A PLACE FOR RECREATION/ JOHN RATCLIFF ESQ: MAYOR'. The reverse features Aston Hall with the date it was built underneath and the name 'Ottley', possibly the designer or engraver. A hole has been pierced in the top for suspension, this is not part of the original design.