1858 New York Chamber of Commerce Atlantic Cable Completion Medal. Large Size. Copper. 69 mm. By Tiffany & Company. Plain Edge. Choice Mint State.，This is a beautiful example with satiny, medium brown surfaces and just a single oxidation spot in the center of the obverse precluding a Gem rating.<p>This piece features the same obverse design used to produce the gold examples presented to principal figures who participated in laying the cable. The reverse, however, is of a different design, although superficially similar. (See our New York Americana Sale of January 2011, lots 6466 and 6467, for examples of the other reverse design, including one of the gold strikings.) Few large-size bronze specimens are known, rare, and a very attractive example.<p>The completion of the first Atlantic Cable between Newfoundland and Ireland through the efforts of Cyrus West Field of Stockbridge, Massachusetts triggered an explosion of worldwide celebration. In August 1858 this to Americans what the Moon landing would be in the next century. Newspapers and magazines were filled with articles and illustrations of celebrations. Disappointment followed when the cable parted after a brief period of service, sending Field "back to the drawing board" to complete yet another cable in 1867.The Howard B. Teich Collection. Earlier from our Americana Sale of February 2014, lot 113.
