Victoria gold Specimen "Winchester College" Prize Medal 1878 SP64 PCGS, cf. Eimer-1240 (for the same type, but from William IV's reign), BHM-1800. 48mm. 56.70gm. By B. Wyon. An impressive award medal with an edge inscription of "C.W.C OMAN . SCHOLARIS.", along with "MDCCCLXXVIII" (1878). Though only part of this information is visible in the current holder placement, the inscription indicates that the medal was awarded to Charles Oman, a British Historian. The offering's choice state renders it highly collectible, featuring razor-sharp, high-relief designs, gently frosted and contrasting against clear and reflective mirror fields. The specimen's attention to detail brings full character to both Victoria's youthful portrait and the reverse design, which depicts the tomb of William of Wykeham, former Bishop of Winchester (1367-1404). Although PCGS has simultaneously placed dates of "c. 1830" and "1878" on the holder insert, the edge inscription indicates an award date of 1878, while the 1830 date apparently ties to the earlier type issued under the reign of William IV and featuring his bust rather than Victoria's - noted as "c. 1830" by Eimer. Sold with the original black case of issue containing velveteen interior and gold embroidery stating "287 REGENT STREET LONDON."

HID09801242017

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