Undated (Circa 1857) Medal for the Rescue of Elisha Kent Kane. White Metal. 60.2 mm. Choice Very Fine.；<strong>Obv:</strong> Arctic ice cliff holds fur-clad William Morton and Eskimo Hans Hendrik, pointing toward open water and the ship Kane tasked them to seek out. Explorer Kane (1820-1857) barely survived this last expedition and died soon after. The original issuers name, TIFFANY & CO. has been removed from the die at about 4 oclock. <strong>Rev:</strong> A laurel wreath encloses AWARDED TO and an open area for engraving the name of the recipient, which in this case is left blank. Random light scratches on both sides, and a moderate spot on the iceberg and ship on the obverse do little to detract from the dramatic appearance of this rare and impressive medal.<p>A naval officer and physician, Kane commanded the Grinnell expeditions to the Arctic and wrote extensively about the Far North, preparing the way for ultimate American discovery of the North Pole. This medal records the locking of Kanes ship in the ice and the search for open water by two of his crew. Kane was ultimately rescued by Lt. Hartstene, who was the hero of the hour. Two similar pieces are known, but both bear the Tiffany name and neither features this "Awarded To" reverse.；
