1858 Laying of the Atlantic Telegraph Cable By Cyrus W. Field Medal. Bronze. 51.2 mm. By George H. Lovett. Mint State, cased.strongObv:/strong Wreathed bust of Field facing right, his name above. strongRev:/strong Latin inscription NIL DESPERANDUM PERSEVERANTIA VINCIT around central legend PRESENTED / TO / CYRUS W. FIELD / BY A FEW OF HIS FRIENDS IN / NEW YORK, / FOR HIS / PERSEVERANCE / IN SUPERINTENDING / THE LAYING OF THE / ATLANTIC TELEGRAPH / CABLE. / AUG. 5TH 1858. This is the variety with TELEGRAPH spelled out and the date added at the bottom of the reverse. This example was struck very early in the press run, before the die began to develop a series of interconnected cracks which eventually destroyed it. Engraved by George H. Lovett, and issued by Augustus B. Sage. Reflective red-brown mahogany surfaces with superficial spotting. Housed in an attractive hinged gutta percha and claret velvet case, which has served well to protect this medal over the past 150 years.p
