Welcome to our dedicated page for the medals of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition held in Chicago. Here, you’ll find detailed information on the various medals issued to commemorate this historic event, including award medals presented for achievements across a range of categories. From intricate designs that capture the essence of the fair to the craftsmanship that went into each piece, our catalog offers an in-depth look at these numismatic collectibles. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious history buff, this is your resource for all things related to the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair medals.
Award Medals 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition
1893 GILT SAINT GAUDEN’ COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION OFFICIAL
The medal depicted appears to be a gold award from the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, celebrating the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the New World. The obverse features a high-relief portrait of Christopher Columbus, the central figure of the exposition’s commemoration. Columbus is shown in a heroic stance, with a cloak draped over his shoulders, gesturing outward as if pointing towards the New World. The details of his attire and the textures of his clothing are meticulously rendered, reflecting the craftsmanship of the medal’s design. Columbus’s gaze is forward and determined, capturing the spirit of exploration and discovery that the exposition aimed to honor.
The reverse side of this bronze medal from the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition features an inscription that commemorates the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas. The text reads “WORLD’S COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION IN COMMEMORATION OF THE FOUR HUNDREDTH ANNIVERSARY OF THE LANDING OF COLUMBUS MDCCCXCII – MDCCCXCIII” with the dates given in Roman numerals (1492 and 1893). The central part of the medal has a rectangular plaque appearance, giving it the look of a historical marker or tablet, which is framed by a decorative border of leaves, further accentuating the medal’s commemorative purpose. The name “PETER L. KRIDER” inscribed at the bottom likely refers to the maker or the awarded individual associated with the medal. The chocolate-brown patina of the medal enhances the legibility of the text and the overall aesthetic appeal of the piece.
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1893 GILT AWARD MEDAL
The reverse side of this bronze medal from the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition features an inscription that commemorates the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas. The text reads “WORLD’S COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION IN COMMEMORATION OF THE FOUR HUNDREDTH ANNIVERSARY OF THE LANDING OF COLUMBUS MDCCCXCII – MDCCCXCIII” with the dates given in Roman numerals (1492 and 1893). The central part of the medal has a rectangular plaque appearance, giving it the look of a historical marker or tablet, which is framed by a decorative border of leaves, further accentuating the medal’s commemorative purpose. The name “PETER L. KRIDER” inscribed at the bottom likely refers to the maker or the awarded individual associated with the medal. The chocolate-brown patina of the medal enhances the legibility of the text and the overall aesthetic appeal of the piece.
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1893 BRONZE AWARD MEDAL
The reverse side of this bronze medal from the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition features an inscription that commemorates the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas. The text reads “WORLD’S COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION IN COMMEMORATION OF THE FOUR HUNDREDTH ANNIVERSARY OF THE LANDING OF COLUMBUS MDCCCXCII – MDCCCXCIII” with the dates given in Roman numerals (1492 and 1893). The central part of the medal has a rectangular plaque appearance, giving it the look of a historical marker or tablet, which is framed by a decorative border of leaves, further accentuating the medal’s commemorative purpose. The name “PETER L. KRIDER” inscribed at the bottom likely refers to the maker or the awarded individual associated with the medal. The chocolate-brown patina of the medal enhances the legibility of the text and the overall aesthetic appeal of the piece.
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SAINT GAUDEN’ COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION OFFICIAL
The reverse side of this bronze medal from the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition features an inscription that commemorates the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas. The text reads “WORLD’S COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION IN COMMEMORATION OF THE FOUR HUNDREDTH ANNIVERSARY OF THE LANDING OF COLUMBUS MDCCCXCII – MDCCCXCIII” with the dates given in Roman numerals (1492 and 1893). The central part of the medal has a rectangular plaque appearance, giving it the look of a historical marker or tablet, which is framed by a decorative border of leaves, further accentuating the medal’s commemorative purpose. The name “PETER L. KRIDER” inscribed at the bottom likely refers to the maker or the awarded individual associated with the medal. The chocolate-brown patina of the medal enhances the legibility of the text and the overall aesthetic appeal of the piece.
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The medal below is the same as above but it is gilt finish rather than bronze. Not sure why, maybe this was used for the gold medal winner as the first one described above seems to be gilt also.
SAINT GAUDEN’ COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION OFFICIAL
The reverse side of this bronze medal from the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition features an inscription that commemorates the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas. The text reads “WORLD’S COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION IN COMMEMORATION OF THE FOUR HUNDREDTH ANNIVERSARY OF THE LANDING OF COLUMBUS MDCCCXCII – MDCCCXCIII” with the dates given in Roman numerals (1492 and 1893). The central part of the medal has a rectangular plaque appearance, giving it the look of a historical marker or tablet, which is framed by a decorative border of leaves, further accentuating the medal’s commemorative purpose. The name “PETER L. KRIDER” inscribed at the bottom likely refers to the maker or the awarded individual associated with the medal. The chocolate-brown patina of the medal enhances the legibility of the text and the overall aesthetic appeal of the piece.
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A great site showing all 1893 medals and elongated coins visit www.socalleddollars.com/Events/Worlds_Columbian_Expo.html
About the Medals of the WORLD’S COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION 1892-1893 CHICAGO, IL
The 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago, commemorating the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the New World, was a monumental event not only for its architectural marvels, such as the iconic White City, but also for its significant contribution to numismatic history through the issuance of commemorative medals and tokens.
1893 Award Medals:
The exposition awarded medals to exhibitors in three classes:
Gold Medals for achievements that displayed the highest excellence in their category. Silver Medals for those showcasing significant merit. Bronze Medals for commendable exhibits that met the exposition’s standards.
The total number of medals issued is not precisely documented in widely available historical records, but it is known that thousands of exhibitors from around the world received these awards. The criteria for awarding these medals were based on innovation, craftsmanship, and contribution to the field.
Design and Symbolism of the Medals:
The obverse of the award medals typically featured a classical allegorical representation—Columbia, the personification of the United States, welcoming all nations to the exposition. The reverse often included an inscription detailing the award level, category, and recipient’s information.
Commemorative Medals Information:
The 1893 Columbian Exposition in Chicago was a treasure trove for collectors due to the vast array of commemorative medals issued. These medals celebrated the fair’s grandeur and its status as a global event. Produced in various metals, with the most common being bronze, silver, and gold, these medals were intricately designed, often featuring allegorical figures representing concepts like discovery, progress, and the industrial spirit of America. The medals were designed by noted sculptors and medalists of the time, which added to their artistic value.
The exposition also produced “so-called dollar” commemorative tokens and medals for visitors as souvenirs, which were sold or given away to remember the event.
Specific medals were also created for the Board of Lady Managers, a group that recognized women’s role in the fair and had its own building and exhibits.
Besides the official awards, various organizations and states also issued their medals to mark participation and commemorate the fair.
The medals from the 1893 Columbian Exposition remain highly sought after by collectors, not just for their historical significance but also for their beauty and the craftsmanship they exhibit. Each medal tells a story of the time when the United States was stepping onto the world stage as an industrial and cultural power.
What New Attractions or Products Were Introduced at the Chicago World’s Fair
The 1893 Columbian Exposition, also known as the Chicago World’s Fair, was a showcase of innovation, culture, and technology, marking the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s voyage to the New World. The fair featured numerous attractions, products, and technological advancements, many of which were being introduced to the public for the first time.
Here are some highlights of what was showcased:
The Ferris Wheel: Designed by George Washington Gale Ferris Jr., this was the first-ever Ferris wheel. It was created as a rival to the Eiffel Tower, the landmark of the 1889 Paris Exposition. The original Ferris wheel was a marvel of engineering and a major attraction at the fair.
Electricity: The fair was a significant showcase for electrical innovations. It featured the first comprehensive electrical display, including a nighttime lighting of the fairgrounds powered by Nikola Tesla’s alternating current system, which illuminated the White City and marked a turning point in how electricity was used in public spaces.
Moving Walkway: Known as the “traveling sidewalk,” it transported visitors along the bank of the lagoon in the Midway Plaisance area of the fair.
The Midway Plaisance: This was an avenue at the fair that featured amusements from around the world, including the Street in Cairo, which brought Middle Eastern culture to American audiences.
Cultural Exhibits: The exposition included various international pavilions showcasing the art, music, and culture of countries from around the world, contributing to a greater global awareness among attendees.
Industrial and Technological Exhibits: There were many exhibits of the latest industrial machines, agricultural developments, and technological inventions of the age.
The White City: This was the nickname for the fair’s exhibition halls, which were constructed to be temporary structures. Their neoclassical architecture, designed by Daniel Burnham and others, had a lasting influence on American architecture.
Consumer Products: Many products that would become household staples were introduced or popularized at the fair, including Cream of Wheat, Juicy Fruit gum, and Pabst Blue Ribbon beer.
The Hall of Honor: This was where the award-winning inventions and works of industry were displayed. Here, visitors could see the cutting-edge advancements that had earned accolades during the fair.
The United States Government Building: It displayed maps, charts, and exhibits from various government departments, showcasing the nation’s growth and administration.
The 1893 Columbian Exposition was not just an exhibition; it was a cultural phenomenon that introduced Americans to a variety of cultural and technological wonders, many of which would become part of everyday life in the 20th century.