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Commemorative medalsThis part of the collection includes medals whose function is primarily commemorative or celebratory rather than being made for presentation as an award or prize. There are around 3000 medals on this kind in the National Maritime Museum (NMM) collection. Browse the entire collection or: View by:
About this collectionThis part of the collection includes medals whose function is primarily commemorative or celebratory rather than being made for presentation as an award or prize. There are around 3000 medals on this kind in the National Maritime Museum (NMM) collection. Commemorative, historical or art medals were struck from the time of the Italian Renaissance based on coins. The examples in the collection are mostly associated with maritime events or the history of science. The collection also includes a few medal-related items such as badges and passes. Highlights from the NMM collection include medals struck in the Netherlands from the 16th century onwards commemorating the country's war of independence from Spain and the naval battles fought with England and France in the 17th century. The French in particular, retaliated by striking medals, celebrating their own naval triumphs examples of which are also in the collection. The collection is a good source for depictions of European explorers, although many are not contemporary, appearing on medals issued during the 19th century. The 'medal as art' is well represented in the output of German expressionists, offering sardonic comment on the U-boat campaigns of the First World War. Researchers are welcome to study items but an appointment must be made in advance. Please contact the E-library for further information. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 8312 6516 |
