The Scinde Medal

William Wyon, 1843

MEDIUMBronze
DIMENSIONSDiam. 1 7/16 in. (37 mm.)
LOCATIONThe Metropolitan Museum of Art

This bronze medal by William Wyon, the chief engraver of the Royal Mint, is a prime example of his Neoclassical style and his significant contribution to British numismatics in the 19th century.

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ABOUT THIS WORK

William Wyon, the official chief engraver at the Royal Mint, created "The Scinde Medal" in 1843. This bronze medal exemplifies Wyon's mastery in numismatic art, a field where he was a highly visible proponent of Neoclassicism, influenced by figures like John Flaxman. Wyon's prolific output and artistic skill made him a renowned figure among coin and medal collectors, and his work often featured detailed effigies and allegorical figures. Given his role at the Royal Mint from 1828 until his death in 1851, Wyon was responsible for a vast array of coinage and medals, including the effigies of George IV, William IV, and the iconic "Young Head" of Queen Victoria. His designs, such as the City Medal for Princess Victoria, even influenced early postage stamps like the Penny Black. This particular medal, crafted in the midst of his illustrious career, showcases the precision and artistic sensibility that defined his contributions to British numismatics.

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What to Notice

1

The intricate details of the engraved figures

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The precision of the lettering

3

The subtle relief work characteristic of medals

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Audio Deep Dive

This bronze medal by William Wyon, the chief engraver of the Royal Mint, is a prime example of his Neoclassical style and his significant contribution to Briti…

Hear the full story in the app
THE ARTIST
William Wyon 1795–1851 · British Empire

William Wyon, Chief Engraver at the Royal Mint, left an indelible mark on British coinage and even the world's first adhesive postage stamp, the Penny Black.

Read William's full story in Art Whisper
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