GREAT BRITAIN. Victoria Golden Jubilee Gold Medal, 1887. London (Royal) Mint. NGC PROOF-64+ Ultra Cameo.Eimer-1733a; BHM-3219. Mintage: 944. Official Issue By L.C. Wyon after J.E. Boehm and Sir Frederick Leighton. Obverse: Draped bust of Queen Victoria left; Reverse: Victoria enthroned with two overhanging cherubs and seven surrounding allegories representing arts and industry. A masterpiece in multiple regards, not only is this medal one of Victorias most celebrated numismatic items (be they coins or medals), but this is also an item without known equal in the observed designation. In terms of condition, although the grade assigned falls just short of that which is typically termed "Gem," this medal is every bit deserving of that moniker. Focusing first on the motifs, all are perfectly struck, with the central designs in particular rising prominently from the fields in sculptural relief; Victorias veil is, for lack of a better term, mesmerizing, as one cant help but question the engraving skill required to produce such intricate, detailed work. The preservation of these elements is also of notable importance, as no blemishes from handling mar the deep cameo-producing frost (an extreme rarity for a medal of this module and relief!). Similar quality can be seen in the fields, with no marks entering the surfaces and only faint handling present, most of which blends into the mirror-like reflectivity. No copper spots appear on either side, but one speck of foreign material is visible in the field below the R in VICTORIA, and this should serve as a useful pedigree marker. All considered, a majestic item, deserving of attention from the Victorian collector interested in acquiring the finest among her numismatic relics.Considering the advancements in health and wellness achieved in the 20th century, it might be easy to overlook the significance of a 50 year reign when using modern eyes, but this couldnt be farther from the case in the 19th century and earlier eras. This sort of longevity, given its rarity, was broadly celebrated and, in Victorias case, it was no different. As noted in British Historical Medals, "the jubilee was celebrated throughout the country by many thousands of people. The festivities took many forms including local fêtes, a yacht race round the island from Southend to Dover, bonfires, illuminations and a service of thanksgiving attended by the Queen at Westminster Abbey." The occasion also inspired "a very large number of unofficial pieces (medals), many of poor style and execution." As the official medal, the specimen offered here received all the attention and grandeur that the event called for. By the end of her reign, Victoria would eclipse even more milestones, including the Diamond Jubilee for her 60th year, ultimately setting the record for longest-reigning British monarch at 67 years, 282 days at the time of her passing. Next to her Coronation however, which marked the formal beginning of her time as monarch, the event for which this medal was produced was unquestionably her most celebrated.
